■^0' 

.<^^°- 









v^*^ 

























r ... V • 



•»-^c^' 



>/%^' 



o^° 






•^^^ 









<t nS <^ 



,0 O ',.1* .'S .^ . 'o . , ' O '.,«' 



'^ ••' ^ -^ -f °^ •" ^° K'. 










v^'-^o; 



■*;- o'' 



•^ . . •i' A> ^A 



.0 V 






4 O 



>°:.- 






.(. 



o ' . , • 









^.^' 



< a 



>"-^^. 



ijk 















•^^ 



"?•. 









o > 



"<i. 
% 



./ 









•i O 
^y -re. 















v^ 



> 









<'^ *• 















,0^ 






,-^^ 



.4> 



%• 









rf- /^ 






♦r. 






^oS*^ 




'A- (P.^ . >* V *^ 

. % ■- s* ^-i- "•■ ^•^- .. -^^ ^"°' y °< 






^. 









^" --"^k^ 










o."^' 















u:-. ^ 

Nrt 















■■•■■■X"\/ 

rv^ „ ■ '. <-„ 









< o 






yf'} •<r'V -^^ 


















4 O 




U >^^^A>- 



HISTORY OF 



FALL RIVER 



Prepared under the direction of a Committee of Prominent 
Citizens appointed by 

HIS HONOR MAYOR JOHN T. COUGHLIN 



IrALLRlYE^ 




BY 



HENRY M. FENNER, A. H. 



Assisted by Benjamin Butlinton 



PROFUSELY ILLUSTRATED 



IN ONE VOLUME 



PUBLISHED BY 

F. T. SMILEY PUBLISHING COMPANY 

I4ylh Stfttt and Bergen Avenue 

NEW YORK 

1906 






LIBRARY of CONGRESS 

Two Copies Received 

OCl 24 1906 

„ CooyriBM Entry 
CLASS A ^^'^■' NO' 
COPY B. ' - 



COFVIJGHT 1906 BT 

1 T. Smilsv Publishing CoMr 
Niw Yen 



P«iss or Sthj»i« Publishing Company 
149TH Si. and Bihgin Avi. 



PREFACE 



The history of Fall River presented to the imhlic in this volume is (iesiKiie.i to (ill 
a niche that has long been vacant, inasmuch as no record of the city's growth has been 
published in nearly thirty years. The aim has been to present a concise and accurate 
statement of the city's history that will be of value as a work ft>.- reference, as much 
as for general reading. Some matter already familiar to many readers has been 
incorporated, because of its imiportance, though in a condensed form, but a considerable 
proportion is new. 

The work has been prepared under the direction of a committee of representalive 
citizens appointed by Mayor John T. Coughlin, consisting of Former Mayor and 
Congressman Robert T. Davis, as Chairman; I.eontine Lincoln, City Engineer Phili]) 
D. Borden, Judge John J. McDonough and Benjamin Buffinton. City Solicitor Hugo A. 
Dubuque, who was also appointed to the committee, was unable to serve. 

The editor desires to acknowledge his great indebtedness to city offlcials, especially 
the City Clerk, Arthur B. Brayton, the officers of banking and manufacturing in- 
stitutions, and various associations, and to scores of private individuals for their un- 
failing courtesy in the furnishing of material, and, in some instances, complete articles, 
as well as in the examination of manuscript. To the members of the committee 
appointed to pass upon the work, he also wishes to extend his thanks for their 
interest and encouragement, and to Michael Reagan, Secretary to the Mayor. Mr. 
Philip D. Borden has also been of great assistance, and was untiring in his efforts for 
the success of the work. 



HBNRY M. FENNER, 

Editor. 



Fall River, June 1, 1906. 



Copy. 



(tit^ of jfall IRlvcr. (^'^ '-&^Ut^l ^(^ O^'/fUi^m^t, 



Jebruary 19, 1906. 



That the History of Pall River no-.v being co;npiled by 
the Smiley. Publishln<T Company, of ilew York, and now in tlie hands 
of the conmittee consisting of Hon. Robert T. lav. s, Hon, John W. 
CuEimlngs, City Solicitor Hugo A. Dubuque, City Encineer Philip D. 
Borden, ieontine llncoln, Esq., and Benjauiin Buffinton, anc; ap- 
pointed by His Honor, the Mayor, be indorsed by the Board of Alder- 
men. If the work is satiBfactory to said co^Mlttee, the City of 
Fall River shall purchase four hundred copies of the book, tiie cost 
of the same not to exceed the sum of one thousand do'lars. 

In Board of Aldermen, February 19, 1906, 
Adopted. 

(Signed) Arthur B. Brayton, City Clerk. 

A])proved, February 20, 1306, 

(Signed) John T. CoOghlin, Mayor. 

A true copy. 
Attest: 



5_^^^£^^^_,,^^^ 



City Clerk. 
To His Honor, the Mayor, February 21, 1906. 



Fall River, Juno G, 19(tC. 

Tlio iiiidcisiKiu'd mnnlit'is of the comniilU-c appoinlod by .Mayor .lolia T. C"oii.;;hlin 
to pass uiM)n the niaiiiiscript of the history of Fall River licri.'by signify their appioval 
of the work as submitted to them. 



fLEONTINE LINCOLN. 
I PHILIP D. BORniCN, 
Signed ■{ ^OWH J. McDONOrcH. 
I R. T. HA VIS. 
t HFX.IAMI.N l!l-FKINTO.\, 



CONTENTS 



CHAPTER I. 
THE EARLIEST DAYS. 
The Native luhabitaats and Their 
Lives — Kiug Philip and Weetamoe— 
The Pocasset and Freemen's Pur- 
chases 1 

'"^CHAPTER U. 
THE FIRST SETTLERS. 
The Coming of the Whites and the 
Building of Their Homes^First In- 
dustries — Life of the Colonial Period 
Here S 

CHAPTER III. 
IN THE REVOLUTION. 
Patriots and Tories— The Battle of Fall 
River — Resolutions on Boston Tea 
Party and Declarajtion of Independ- 
ence — .Schools and Churches 15 

■^ CHAPTER IV. 

FALL RIVER A TOWN. 
Struggle Over the Separation From 
Freetown — Change of the Name — 
Building the First Mills— The Whal- 
ing Industry 20 

CHAPTER V. 
TNCORPORATED A CITY. 
The First Government — The Civil War 
and the Period of Rapid G-rowth To 
18S0 2S 

CHAPTER VI. 
PROGRESS SINCE IS.SO. 
Population More Than Doubles— Con- 
tinued Mill Building — Public Im- 
provements and New City Charter. . 37 

CHAPTER VII. 
Mayor John T. Coughlin's Addministra- 
tion — Board of .A.Idermen 1900 — 
Other City Officials 41 

CHAPTER VIII. 
FALL RIVER TO-DAY. 
Its Attractive Situation and Advantages 
— Brigiht Prospect for the Future — 
Fine Water Works System 43 

CHAPTER IX. 
EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES. 
Growth and Efficiency of the Modern 

School System— The Pu1>lic Library. T.C 



CHAPTER X. 
FIRE AND POLICE. 
Sketch of the Beginnings and Develop- 
ment of Two Strong Departments of 
the Municipality liT 

/ CHAPTER XI. 
THE CITY'S INDUSTRIE5S. 
This the Greatest Centre o* Cotton 
Manufacturing — Its Rapid Growth — 
The Various Corporations — Other 
Industries 7 2 

CHAPTER XII. 
BANKS AND BANKING. 
Honorable and Prosperous Career of 
the Institutions, With Long Terms 
of Service — The History of Each. . . !).") 

CHAPTER X I 1 1. 
LAW. MEDICINE AND THE PRESS. 
Early and Present Lawyers and Physi- 
cians — The Court House and Hos- 
pitals — The Newspapers 102 

CHAPTER XIV. 
RELIGIOUS DIONOMINATIONS. 
Wide Variety of Denominations — Long 
Pastorates and Sti-ong Preachers — 
Sketch of Each Church Ill 

CHAPTER XV. 
THE CATHOLIC CHURCH. 
Tie Diocese of Fall River — Beginnings 
of Catholicity Here — Numerous 
Strong Parishes With Their History 123 

CHAPTER XVI. 
CLUBS, LODGES, SOCIAL AND OTHER 

ORGANIZATIONS. 
Y. M. C. A., Boys' Club, Home For Aged 
People and Similar In.stitutions — 
Quequechan CUnb and Masonic and 
Other Lodges — The Militia — Labor 
Union.s and l>abor Troubles i:!2 

CHAPTER XVII. 

STATISTICS. 

City Officers from 1854 to 190G 143 

CHAPTER XVIII. 
Biographical Sketches of Weil-Known 

Fall River Men, Pa?t and Present . . 10 1 



CHAPTER I 



THE EARLIEST DAYS 



The Native Inhabitants and Their Lives. King Philip and Weetamoe. 

Freemen's Purchases 



The Pocassef and 



Though the New World was discovered 
by Columbus in 1492 and the northern coast 
was skirted six years later, by Sebastian 
Cabot under the protection of the English 
King, thereby giving England some claim 
to the territory, it was not till the Pilgrims 
landed at Plymouth in 1620 that any perma- 
nent settlement was made in New England. 
Till then the territory that now comprises 
the city of Fall River had been a part of the 
domain of the Wampanoag Indians, in whose 
possession it remained till shortly before 
King Philip's war, fifty-five years later, and 
with these original proprietors of the soil 
the history of the city properly begins. 

The section had been visited by others 
before the Pilgrims came, however, though 
one cannot speak with absolute certainty of 
their names or the date of their coming. 
The Northmen, the hardy, sea-loving Vikings 
of many a tale, were of an adventurous dis- 
position, and, according to their sagas, in 
lOOS, a party of them, under Thorfinn, sailed 
up the Seaconnet River to Mt. Hope Bay, 
where they spent the winter. They "called 
the place Hop," whence some have thought 
to trace the name Mt. Hope. They traded 
with the natives and may have marked a 
curiously-traced stone found at Bristol, as 
well as Dighton rock. On this, however! 
critical historians are skeptical. 

Far more thoroughly authenticated than 
this, and, indeed, a matter of accepted his- 
tory, is the visit of Joseph Verrazzano, a 
Florentine discoverer, under French patron- 
age, who in 1524 after calling at Block Isl- 
and, entered Narragansett Bay, where he 
and his company of fifty men remained, 
probably at Newport, about fifteen days. He 
was greatly pleased with the natives, of 
whom he saw much, and described them and 
their customs at length in a letter to the king.* 
"They were," he said, 'Uhe finest-looking 



♦Bickuell's Harrington. 



people and the handsomest in their costumes 
that we found on our voyage. They e.xceed 
us in size, and are of a very fair com- 
plexion; some of them incline more to a 
white and some are of a tawny color. Their 
faces are sharp; their hair is long and black, 
on the adornment of which they bestow 
great care. Their eyes are black and keen ; 
their demeanor is gentle and attractive. . . .' 
The women resemble them in size and are 
very graceful and handsome, and quite at- 
tractive in dress and manners. They had 
no other clothing except a deer skin, orna- 
mented as were the skins worn by the men. 
Some had very rich lynx skins upon their 
arms and wore various ornaments upon their 
heads, braided in their hair, which hung 
down upon their breasts." 

These were a part of the Wampauoags 
long a powerful and populous people, able to 
call together 3,000 warriors, and the owners 
of nearly all of Southeastern Massachusetts. 
They were an important division of the Al- 
gonquin nation, but as the result of a terrible 
epidemic, possibly smallpox, about 1G12, 
their numbers had been greatly reduced at 
the time of the Plymouth settlement, and 
they had been obliged to pay tribute to their 
ancient enemies, the Narragansetts, who 
dwelt on the west shores of the bay. It was 
this weakened condition of the tribe which 
was probably a potent factor in bringing the 
chief, Massasoit, early to make a treaty of 
friendship with the Plymouth settlers, 
through Indians who had learned English 
from chance traders, and to remain their 
firm friend till his death, forty years later. 
The treaty, too. was of great advantage for 
all, not only in trade, but as a shield for the 
whites against hostile natives, as well as for 
the Wainpanoags against their foes. One 
sub-chief, Corbitant. who occupied this ter- 
ritory, was hostile to the whites, but he was 
restrained by Massasoit and died a few 
years after the Plymouth settlement. 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



The good qualities of the Wampanoag In- 
dians may, of course, be easily overesti- 
mated, and yet much could be said for their 
intelligence and hospitality, as well as for 
their generally superior qualities when com- 
pared with some other tribes. During the 
long reign of Massasoit, whose death oc- 
curred in 1G(>0, ihey were consistently friend- 
ly to the Plymouth settlers, and it was not 
till he was suiie and Wamsutta, his eldest 




KiiiK Philip 

son, had succeeded him, that the whites be- 
gan to question their good faith. Wam- 
sutla's humiliating treatment by l;he English, 
and his death of fever possll)ly brought on 
by Ibis, which I he Indians suspecle.l was 
poisoning, (lid not improve a feeling alreaily 
growing tense. Philip, the second son, 
known to his followers as Metacomel. I)e- 
came chief, and as matters grew worse and 



the settlers encroached more and more on 
his hunting grounds, nursed thoughts that 
had their vent in the historic war that bears 
his name. Though this raged about the 
present city, no important incident in the 
conflict took place within its limits. The 
end of the struggle was the practical de- 
struction of the Wampanoags as a tribe, and 
the flight of most of the few survivors <o the 
PtnoUscot Indians in Maine. Philip himself 
was killed, near Mt. Hope, August 12, ItiTG. 
and his wife and child sold into slavery in 
Uermuda. 

So complete was the destruction of the 
Indian power that in the Governor's Thanks- 
giving proclamation in December it was 
stated: "Of those several tribes and parties 
that have hitherto risen up against us, 
which were not a few, there now scarce 
remains a name or family of them in their 
former habitations, but are either slain, cap- 
tivated or fled into remote parts of this 
wilderness, or lie hid, despairing of their 
first intentions against us."* 

One of the best, if not the very best, docu- 
ments setting forth the Indian attitude to- 
ward the whites about 1G70, and more espe- 
cially that of King Philip, is his reply to 
lohn Borden, of Portsmouth, following the 
lectipt of a complaint from the council at 
Plymouth, just before the outbreak of the 
war. This reply, which was prepared and 
probably delivered at Ml. Hope, sets forth 
the grievances of the Indians most simply 
and yet forcibly and is a notable example of 
Indian eloquence. It is as follows: 

"Tile English who came flrst to this coun- 
try were but an handful of people, forlorn, 
poor and distressed. My father was their 
^-.lchem. He relieved their distresses in the 
niosl l<ind and hospitable manner. He gave 
I hem land to build and plant upon. He did 
all in his power to serve them. Others of 
their own countrymen came and joined 
them. Their numbers rapidly increased. My 
lather's counsellors became uneasy and 
iilarme I, lest, as they were iwssessed of 
tirearms, which was not the case with the 
Indians, they should finally- undertake to 
give law to the Indians, and taki' from them 
their country. They, therefore, advised him 
to destroy them, before they should become 
too strong, and it should be too late. My 
father was also the father of the English. 
He represented to his counsellors and war- 
riors that the English know many sciences 



•.Memorial History of Uoslon 1:1)25. 



HISTORY OF FALL RTVER 



which the Indians did not; that they Im- 
proved and cultivated the earth, and raised 
cattle and fruits, and that there was suffi- 
cient room in the country for both the Eng- 
lish and the Indians. His advice prevailed. 
It was concluded to give victuals to the Eng- 
lish. They flourished and increased. Experi- 
ence taught that the advice of my father's 
counsellors was right. 

"By various means they got possessed of 
a great part of his territory. But he still 
remained their friend till he died. My elder 
brother became Sachem. They pretended to 
suspect him of evil designs against them. 
He was seized and confined, and thereby 
thrown into sickness and died. Soon after 
I became Sachem they disarmed all uiy 
people. They tried my people by their own 
laws, and assessed damages against them 
which they could not pay. Their land was 
taken. At length a line of division was 
agreed upon between the English and my 
people, and I myself was to be resixinsible. 
Sometimes the cattle of the EJnglish would 
come into the cornfields of my people, for 
they did not make fences like the English. 

"I must then be seized and confined till 
I had sold another tract of my country for 
satisfaction of all damages and costs. 

"Thus tract after tract is gone. But a 
small part of the dominion of my ancestors 
remains. 

"I am determined not to live till I have no 
country." 

Of the habits of t)he Wampanoags a fairly 
complete picture has come down to us. They 
were considerably advanced in civilization, 
cultivating corn, beans, pumpkins and 
squashes, preparing food by no means unpal- 
atable, with the aid of fire, dressing bark 
for their canoes, and weaving mats of rushes 
and grasses for their wigwams. They made 
cooking utensils of stone and clay, and other 
rude articles of shell, stone and bone, and 
prepared skins for clothing. They were ac- 
curate in their observations of the weather, 
and had names for the constellations. They 
worsihipped various gods but believed in one 
supreme being and the immortality of the 
soul. Their weapons were the familiar stone 
tomahawk and the bow with arrows tipped 
with sharp stones. 

Their lives were wandering, though with 
permanent haunts, which can be traced to- 
day by heaps of shells or stone implements. 
The summers they spent near the ponds or 
shore, wihere they could most easily obtain 
fish and shellfish, both of which, as well as 



game of many kinds, were abundant, and in 
winter they retired to sheltered valleys or 
dense swamps. Their residence was always 
where the means of obtaining food were 
easiest and life the most comfortable. The 
soil was fertile, and though this section was 
heavily wooded with oak, walnut and pine, 
they had cleared some places for gardens, 
three of which are known to have existed 
within the limits of the present city, in each 
case where the presence of water on one or 
more sides made fencing against wild ani- 
mals easiest. One of these garden spots 
was on the flats near Slade's ferry, another 
near the Fall River Iron Works, where a 
neck of land now occupied by the print 
works ran out with tide water on three 
sides, and a third where the Quequechan 
River makes out from the ponds. As else- 
where among Indians, the women cultivated 
the crops, dug the clams, carried burdens 
and in general did the drudgery, while their 
lords hunted and fished. They had learned 
to fertilize their corn by placing fish in the 
hills, a custom -which they taught the whites 
and which is still practiced. 

Game„ fish, scallops, oysters and clams, 
the latter baked much as in the clambake 
to-day, together with corn and nuts, were 
their staple foods. The corn was parched, 
pounded to meal in a mortar and baked, 
sometimes with the addition of berries, 
which were abundant. The latter, notably 
strawberries, were often bruised and added 
to the bread to make a primitive shortcake. 
Shad roes, boiled with acorns, were another 
favorite dish. Nuts of all kinds were gath- 
ered for winter stores and acorns for the 
hair oil they would produce, as well as for 
their nutriment. 

For protection against the winter they 
built easily transported wigwams, made of 
thick and well-woven grass mats tilirown 
around poles meeting at the (op. These cov- 
erings were double, with the finer inside. 
A small mat could be thrown over the top 
to retain the warmth, and another was used 
to close the entrance which was about three 
feet high. Mats were also used for beds. 

The leaders did not encourage efforts of 
missionaries to convert their followers, to 
Christianity. It is told of Philip, for ex- 
ample, that on hearing of such work across 
his borders he positively refused to entertain 
the preachers, to listen to thoir teaching or 
to allow his subjects to be approached by it. 
He spoke 1)itterly In contempt of the English 
creed, and on one occasion, taking hold of 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Eliot's coat button, told him he cared no 
more for his religion than for that.* 

The sharpness of the native intellect and 
their acuteness in framing difficult questions 
may be seen in some of the queries the In- 
dians about Boston put to Eliot.f He had 
told them they were the childi-en, not of God, 
but of the devil, and they wero naturally 
most interested in the latter. They asked: 
Whether the devil or man was made first? 
Whether there might not be something, if 
only a little, gained by praying to the devil? 
Why does not God, who has full power, kill 
the devil that makes all men so bad? If all 
the world be burned up, where would holl 
be then? 

Their language was easily learned, by the 
whites, at least sufficiently for most pur- 
poses, but was difficult to put in writing. 
It was extremely guttural, and often the 
words were of great length, sometimes run- 
ning to more than forty letters each, with 
thirteen or even fifteen syllables. Though 
the dialects varied considerablj', it was the 
same tongue as that spoken throughout Mas- 
sachusetts, Rhode Island and the greater 
part of Connecticut. The natives soon came 
to understand the English language, though 
they were not so quick to acquire the ability 
to speak it. 

Many of the implements of the Indians 
have been found in various parts of the 
city, and some notable private collections 
have been made. The Indian names have 
largely been preserved in the titles of bank- 
ing and manufacturing corporations anil 
clubs within the city, as well as in the name 
of the Quequechan River and in the designa- 
tion of scores of near-by sections. 

Until the war which wrought the exter- 
mination of the Wampanoags there had 
been no white settlers within the bounds of 
the present city, though the title to the sec- 
tion north of the Quequechan had passed 
to the English in 1G59 by what is known as 
the Freemen's Purchase. This extended 
from the Quequechan River on the south to 
Stacey's Brook, the present northern boun- 
dary of Freetown, a distance of eight or nine 
miles, and easterly from the Taunton River 
about four miles. It had been grante<] to 
the twonty-six residents of Plymouth who 
were its purchasers by the general court 
there .luly 3, lC5fi, and was conveyed by 
the hxllans in accordance with a written 



•Memorial History of Boston, 1:204. 
tibid, 2G9. 



promise made by Wamsutta, eldest son of 
Chief Massasoit, to John Barns, of Ply- 
mouth, to whom he was in debt, December 
24, 1G57. In addition to satisfying this debt, 
the English paid the Indians the various ar- 
ticles named in the deed, which was as fol- 
lows: 

"Know all men by these presents that we, 
Ossamequin, Wamsitta, Taltapanum, Na- 
tives inhaltitlng and living within the gov- 
ernment of New Plymouth, in New England 
in America, have bargained, sold, enfeoffed 
and confirmed unto Captain James Cud- 
worth, Josiah Winslow, Sr., Constant South- 
worth, .lohn Barns, John Tesdale, Humphrey 
'I'urner Walter Hatch, Samuel House, Sam- 
uel Jackson, John Daman, Mr. Timothy 
Hatherly, Timothy Foster, Thomas South- 
worth, George Watson, Nathaniel Morton, 
Richard Moore, Edmund Chandler, Samuel 
Nash, Henry Howland, .Mr. Ralph Partridge. 
lx)ve Brewster, William Paybody, Christo- 
pher Wadsworth. Kenelme Winslow. Thomas 
Bowen and John Waterman, the son of 
Robert Waterman, and do by these presents 
bargain, sell, enfeoff and confirm from us, 
our heirs, unto James Cudworth, Josiah 
Winslow, Senior, Constant Southworth, John 
Tesdale, &c., and they and their heirs, all 
the tract of upland and meadow lying on the 
easterly side of Taunton River, beginning or 
bounded towards the south with the river 
called the Falls or Quequechand and so ex- 
lending itself northerly until it comes to a 
little brook, called by the English by the 
name of Stacey's Cre(>k: which brook issues 
out of the woods, into the marsh or bay of 
.\ssonate close by the narrowing of Assonate 
Neck, and from a marked tree, near the said 
brook at the head of the mar.^h. to extend 
itself into the woods on a northeasterly 
point four miles, and from the head of said 
four miles on a straight line southerly until 
it meet with the head of the four-mile line 
at Quequechand, or the Falls aforesaid, in- 
cluding all meadow, necks or Islands lying 
and being between As.sonale Neck and the 
Falls aforesaid (except the land that 
Tabatacason hath in present use) and the 
meadow upon A.ssonale Neck, on the south 
side of the said neck, and all the meadow 
on the westerly side of Taunton River from 
Taunton bounils roimd until It come to the 
head of Weypowset River, in all creoks. 
coves, rivers and inland meadow not lying 
above four miles from the (lowing of the 
tide in, and for the consideration of twenty 
coats, two rugs, two iron pots, two kettles 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



and one little kettle, eight pair of shoes, six 
pair of stockings, one dozen hose, one dozen 
of hatchets, two yards broadcloth and a 
debt satisfied to John Barnes which was 
due from Wamsitta, unto John Barnes be- 
fore the 24th of December, 1G57, all being 
unto us in hand paid, wherewith we, tlio 
said Ossamequin, Wamsitta. Tatlapanum, 
are fully satisfied, contented and paid, and 
do by these presents exonerate, acquit and 
discharge (here all the grantees are again 
named) they and either of them and each 
of the heirs and executors of them forever. 
Warranting the hereof from all persons, 
from, by or under us, as laying any claim 
unto the premises from, by or under us, 
claiming any right or title thereunto, or unto 
any part or parcel thereof, the said (gran- 
tees) to have and to hold to them and their 
heirs forever, all the above upland and 
meadow as is before expressed, with all the 
appurtenances thereunto belonging from us, 
Ossamequin, Wamsitta and Tattapanum, 
and every of us, our heirs and every of them 
forever, unto them, they, their heirs, execu- 
tors, administrators and assigns forever, ac- 
cording to the tenure of East Greenwich, in 
free soccage and not in capte nor by knights' 
service. Also the said Ossamequin, Wamsit- 
ta and Tattapanum do covenant and grant 
that it may be lawful for the said (grantees) 
to enter the said deed in the court of Ply- 
mouth, or in any other court of record pro- 
vided for in such case, in and for the true 
performance whereof Ossamequin, Wamsitta 
and Tattapanum have hereunto set our 
hands and seals this 2d day of April, 1C59. 

[Seal] 
WAMSITTA his X mark. [Seal] 

TATTAPANUM, her X mark. [Seal] 

Signed, sealed and delivered in presence of 
THOMAS COOKE, 
JONATHAN BRIDGE, 
JOHN SASSAMON. 

Chief Massasoit (Ossamequin) never sign- 
ed the deed. He was already aged and may 
have declined business or delegated it to 
his eldest son, Wamsutta. on account of his 
advanced years. Wamsutta's wife Weetamoe 
(or Tattapanum), who had succeeded her 
father Corbitant as squaw sachem of the 
Pocassets, raised strenuous objections to 
signing the document, on the ground that 
the territory was her own property, which 
her husband had no right to sell. A settle- 
ment was finally made with her and her 
signature rbtained by the payment in addi- 



tion of twenty yards blue trading cloth, two 
yards red cotton, two pairs shoes, two pairs 
stockings, six broad hoes and one axe. She 
has been described by a white woman who 
lived some time among the natives as "a 
severe and proud woman, . . . bestow- 
ing every day in dressing herself nearly as 
much time as any of the gentry, powdering 
her hair and painting her face, going with 
her necklace, with jewels in her ears and 
bracelets upon her hands." She was drown- 
ed at Slade's Ferry during King Philip's 
war, while fleeing from the English. 

The grant from the Plymouth government 
under which the Freemen's Purchase was 
made was later confirmed in a deed from 
the Plymouth officials. 

That part of the city lying south of the 
Quequechan, as well as the present town 
of Tiverton, was designated as the Pocasset 
Purchase, from the name of the sub-tribe of 
Indians from whom it was taken in King 
Philip's war. It extended from the Queque- 
chan to the Puncatest and Dartmouth 
bounds on the south and easterly from the 
bay from four to six miles. The price, as 
given in the deed from the Plymouth govern- 
ment, was £1,100. The text of the instru- 
ment is as follows: 

"To all to whom these presents shall come, 
Josiah Winslow, Esq., Governor of the Col- 
ony of New Plymouth; Major Wm. Bradford, 
Treasurer of the said Colony; Mr. Thomas 
Hinckley and Major James Cudworth As- 
sistants to the said Governor, send Greeting; 
and whereas we, the said Governor, Treas- 
urer and Assistants, or any two of us, by 
virtue of an order of the General Court of 
the Colony aforesaid, bearing date Novem- 
lier, A. D., 1676, are impowered in said 
Colony's behalf to make sale of certain 
lands belonging to the Colony aforesaid, and 
to make and seal deeds for the confirmation 
of the same, as by the said order remaining 
on record in the said court rolls more at 
large appeareth; now, know ye that we, the 
said Governor, Treasurer and Assistants as 
agents, in behalf of the said Colony, for and 
in consideration of the full and just sum of 
one thousand and one hundred pounds in 
lawful money of New England, to us in hand, 
before the ensealing and delivery of these 
presents, well and truly paid by Edward 
Gray, of Plymouth, in the Colony aforesaid ; 
Nathaniel Thomas, of Marshfield. in the 
Colony aforesaid: Benjamin Church, of 
Puncatest, in the Colony aforesaid ; Christo- 
pher Almy. Job Almy and Thomas Waite, of 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Portsmouth, in the Colony of Rhoik; IslaiHl, 
and Providence Plantations; Daniel Wilcox, 
of Puncatest, and William Manchester, of 
Punoatest, in the Colony of New Plymouth 
aforesaid, with which the said sum, we, the 
said agents, <lo acknowledge to be fully 
satisfied, contented and paid, and thereof do 
acquit and, discharge the said (grantees) and 
their heirs, executors, administrators and 
assigns forever; 'by these presents have 
given, granted, bargained, sold, aliened, 
enfeoffed and confirmed; and by these pres- 
ents for us and the said Colony of New Ply- 
mouth, do freely, fully and absolutely give, 
grant, &c., to the said (grantees) all those 
lands situate, lying and being at Pocasset, 
and places adjacent in the Colony of Ply- 
mouth aforesaid, and is bounded as follow- 
eth: Northward and westward by the Free- 
men's lot, near the Fall River; westward by 
the Bay or Sound that runneth between the 
said lands and Rhode Island; southward 
partily by Seaconnet bounds, and partly by 
Dartmouth bounds, and northward and east- 
ward up into the woods till its meets with 
the lands formerly granted by the Court to 
other men, and legally obtained by them 
from the natives, not extending further than 
Middlebury town bounds and Quitquissett 
ponds." (Several small reservations previous- 
ly sold are here named, and the deed pro- 
ceeds in the usual form, and adds): "That 
is to say, to the said Edward Gray nine 
shares or thirtieth parts; to the said Na- 
thaniel Thomas five shares or thirtieth 
parts; to the said Benjamin Church one 
share or thirtieth part; to the said Christo- 
pher Almy three shares and three quarters 
of one share; to the said Thomas Waite one 
share; to the said Daniel Wilcox two shares; 
to the said William Manchester five shares." 
(The rest of the deed is in the usual form of 
a warrantee deed.) 

Signed, sealed and delivered in the pres- 
ence of witnesses, March 5, 1679-SO. 

.JOSIAH WINSLOW. Governor; 
WM. BRADFORD, Treasurer; 
THOMAS HINCKLEY, 
.TAMES CUDWORTH, Assistants. 

The Freemen's Purchase was incorporated 
in KISS as the town of Freetown, then a 
liart of the Plymouth Colony. Two years 
later the lands under the control of the 
Plymouth government were divided into the 
three counties of Bristol, Barnstable and 
Plymouth, and Freetown, as well as the 
Pocass'>t Purchase, became a part of Bristol 



County. lu Ui'J2 the three counties were 
united with Massachusetts and the Plymouth 
Colony government, which then included 
Tiverton, came to an end. 

The first owners of the Freemen's Pur- 
chase divided it among themselves by lot 
into twenty-six shares, each having a front- 
age of about 100 rods on the river and 
extending easterly about four miles to the 
eastern boundary of the strip purchased. 
These lots were numbered consecutively, 
beginning a few rods north of the Queque- 
chan River. Thirteen full lots and a part of 
the fourteenth fell within what is now the 
city of Fall River. 

The first lot, nearest the Quequechan. was 
drawn by Timothy Foster and .sold in 1CT9 
to William Earle, John Borden and David L. 
Lake, all of Portsmouth, for £140. Much 
of it was sold to the Bordens and remained 
in that family for generations. The second 
was drawn by Humphrey Turner, and pass- 
ed through various owners till 17S1. when 
the west end of it became the property of 
Benjamin Durfee at whose death it passed 
to his son, Thomas, who had also acquired 
the north half of the first lot and was thus 
the owner of all the land from Elm street to 
Turner, and from the river to the ponds. 
Christopher Wadsworth drew the third lot; 
Edmund Chandiler, the fourth; Samuel 
House, the fifth; John Howland. the sixth; 
George Watson, the seventh: Ral|)h Part- 
ridge, the eighth; Timothy Ilatherly, the 
ninth; Love Brewster, the tenth; Richard 
Moore, the eleventh; William Hatch, the 
twelfth; Thomas Southworth, the thirteenth: 
and William Pa.vbody. the fourteenth. The 
divisions and transfers from these early 
owners to the present day can be traced 
by the curious at the registry of deeds with- 
out much difficulty. 

The Pocasset Purchase was likewise di- 
vided among the proprietors by a commit- 
tee consisting of Christopher Almy. Job 
Almy, William Manchester and Nathaniel 
Thomas, appointed at a meeting of the pur- 
chasers April 11, IGSl. The first twelve lots 
were within Fall River, and with the excep- 
tion of seven, eight and nine were flfty-lwo 
rods wide. A strip thirty rods wide adjoin- 
ing the Quequechan was owned in common. 
The others were called "great lots" and ex- 
tended from the bay one mile eastward to 
Bight Rod Way, now Plymouth avenue, 
■which was ordered laid out In 169G. They 
were nunvbered beginning thirty rods south 
of the Quequechan and were drawn as fol- 



HISTORY OF FALL RTVER 



lows: Lots 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12, Kdwanl (Jray: 
'i and 5, William Manchester; G, Hoiijaniin 
Church 7 and 9, Christopher Almy; 10, Dan- 
iel Wilcox; 11, .lob Almy. 

A second division was made later of the 
land between Plymouth avenue, Watuppa 
pond and the Quequechan River, which was 
laid out in 120-acre lots, called "six-score- 
acre lots," with Richard Borden, .lohn Cook, 
William Corey, Job Almy, Thomas Corey, 
Lidy Gray, Christopher Almy, Nathaniel 
Southwick. Joseph Wanton, Seth Arnold and 
Edward Gray as the first owners. A third 
division of land near the pond was made in 
1G97 and included the section between the 
Quequechan River and Bedford street, now 
known as Flint Village. It extended west- 
ward nearly to Twelfth street. 

The original grand deed of the Pocasset 
Purchase has been carefully preserved, and 
is now in the possession of the family of the 
late Cook Borden. The original deed of tne 
Freemen's Purchase is believed to have been 
lost. The records of the Pocasset proprie- 



tors are still preserved and show that house 
lots with gardens in the rear were laid out 
at Stone Bridge, where a ferry lot and a 
ministry lot were also set aside, evidence 
that it was there the original owners ex- 
pected the settlement would be made. The 
spelling is curious for its marked variation 
from present styles, sometimes greatly 
shortened, as in the form "Xofer Allmy" 
for Christopher Almy, and sometimes length- 
ened by the addition of apparently unneces- 
sary letters, as in "■att" and "lott." Two 
small "f's" were used instead of a capital 
and a small "w" in nearly every case. The 
records pertain almost entirely to the land, 
but there are occasionally other matters, 
like the vote that those who had not paid 
their share should not have the right to 
draw for sections, and another vote. May 
29, 1792, that "Levi Rouncifull of Freetown 
and Joseph Durfee of Tiverton bo appointed 
agents by this proprietee to forbid all and 
every person from takin.g iron ore out of 
any fresh pond or ponds." 




(ormcrlv .it S. W. Coi 



CHAPTER II 



THE FIRST SETTLERS 



The Coming of the Whites and the Building of Their Homes. 
Life of the Coloniai Period Here. 



First Industries. 



Of the first white settlers within the 
limits of the present city it is impossible to 
speak with certainty. Tradition, however, 
Bays there were a few scattered here and 
there before the outbreak of King Philip's 
war, and that all fled to safety with the 
exception of one Lawton, who was killed by 
the Indians on the same day as the attack 
on Swansea. The situation with regard to 
the natives had not been encouraging for 
frontier settlements, or at least, for settle- 
ments in sections like this at some distance 
from larger villages, and if there were any 
whites here at the outbreak of the war, their 
property was undoubtedly destroyed by the 
Indians during the ct)nflict. 

Matthew Roomer, who is believed to have 
iiecn the first to come here to dwell, had 
bought the north half of the fourth lot from 
Henry Brightman in March, 167G, and soon 
after, probably not until the end of the war, 
however, erected a dwelling on the east side 
of the Main road, opposite Brownell street. 
Sixteen years later, in 1G92, ho deeded half 
of his purchase with buildings thereon, to 
his son. Matthew, Jr. 

John Read, of Newport, was living on the 
site of St. Joseph's Church, further to the 
north, in 168G. George Lawton was an- 
other early settler, and in 1GS7 he sold to 
Samuel Gardner, also of Newport, one-half 
of the fifth lot, "being the southerly side of 
the said Lott, where the said George Law- 
ton now dwells," with the house and other 
buildings. Gardner was town clerk for a 
number of years, the first whose records 
are extant, and later i)iirchased Gardner's 
Neck at South Swansea. Henry Howland, 
of Duxbury, was on the sixth lot as early 
as 1GS3. and four years later, after his death, 
his sons, Samuel and Nathaniel, divided the 
lot, with the hou.se. Robert Durfee built on 
the tenth lot atwut lOSO, and a little north 
of him various depositions are on file that 
Hugh WcKxlberee was living at this time, on 



the eleventh lot. William Chase, in a deed 
of 1GS4, is described as "inhabiting at Free- 
town neare the Fall River." Here, as in all 
early deeds, it will l)e noticed that the name 
Fall River appears, but refers to the stream 
rather than to any settlement near it. The 
llrnry Brightman house, possibly the oldest 
ill the city still standing, was on Crescent 
street, near the present sand bank. 

Another early settler, about 1G90, was 
Ralph Earle, of Poi-ismouth, whose dwelling 
st<K)d at the northwest corner of what is now 
North Main and Central streets, but as 
styled in the earlier days, on the Main road, 
<)pi)osite the cleft rock. This cleft rock, on 
the northwest corner of Main and Bedford 
streets, from which an excellent spring i.s- 
sued, later became notable as for a time the 
boundary between Tiverton and Fall River. 
Ii was here that the traveller who was bound 
for New Bedford or other towns in that di- 
rection turned off to the east from the Main 
road up what is now Bedford street. Botli 
this and the Main street of to-day follow 
suhstantially the lines of the old Indian 
trails. Some slight changes have been 
made, but in general they run the same as 
in the days of the Indians. In going up 
Bedford street, however, the latter turned 
slightly to the south to bring them to the 
Narrows by the shortest road. South of 
the Quequechan, on the "'mill lot," so-called 
and below the hill, at the corner of what is 
now Pond and Anawan streets, was Benja- 
min Church's house, erected about 1G80. 
Francis Brayton, of Portsmouth, bought 
land on the lot immediately .soulh Fi'liruary 
22, 1701, and sixjn after erected a dwelling 
on the Main road, where the Baptist Temple 
now stands. He was a blacksmith and had 
a shop near by, while a rival shop was 
erected later near the site of the city hall. 

On the second lot, counting south from 
the stream, and omitting the mill lot im- 
mediately adjoining the river, George Brow- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



nell of Portsmouth, who hail Ixjught in lO'JH, 
erected a large house on the east side of 
the roatl about Where Morgan street now is. 
Deacon Richard Durfee's house, also erected 
aljout this time, stood at Cottage street. 
Benjamin Durfee's, which is still standing, 
was at Middle, but had to toe moved when 
that thoroughfare was cut through. Others 
on the Main road were at the northwest 
corner of Osborn street, the Pearce house 
opposite Hamlet street, the Bowen place 
at the corner of Globe, and a Durfee house 
at the northeast corner of Slade. The 
Dwelly homestead was on the west side of 
the road where the Bellcvue house now is, 
the Davis house near Cook pond and the 
Townsend homestead in the hollow near the 
hill that bears the name of that famil.v. Be- 
.vond this was the Four Rod Wa.v, now 
known as State avenue, on the dividing line 
between Rhode Island and Massachusetts. 

The first lots in the Pocasset Purchase, it 
will be remembered, ran only as far as 
Plymouth avenue, which had early been 
laid out at the head of these lots at a dis- 
tance of one mile from the shore^ thus ac- 
counting for its bends. On the first lot of 
the second division, east of this highway, 
and comprising the Richard Borden and 
Chace mill districts, no early house was 
erected. On the second stood and still 
stands the Snell house, in the hollow of the 
present Snell street. The third lot was 
Richard Borden's farm, and the house still 
stands at the northeast corner of Mott and 
Warren streets. On the fourth, known as 
the Grininell land, was the Aaron Bowen 
house, on Six Rod Way, which is still stand- 
ing with an addition. The Wordell house, 
erected about 1720. stood on Stafford road, 
about opposite the car barn. The Currys' 
home was farther down the road, near Jef- 
ferson street; the Negus place, dating from 
about 1789, was on the east side, just north 
of Tower. Three Cook houses stood beyond 
this, then the Perry house on the east side, 
opix)site Lawton. and the Thomas Cook 
place at Sucker Brook. The Stafford land 
lay beyond this, with a large dwelling, and 
the Estes house, recently burned, on the 
present State line. Wherever practicable, 
each house was built near a spring.* 

This list, which to some may be sugges- 
tive of Homer's catalogue of the ships, is be- 
lieved to cover most, if not all, of the older 



*The location of these houses is given 
on the authority of a local antiquarian. 



dwellings in the present city. One other, 
not yet named, deserves mention because of 
the interest attaching to it on account of the 
belief in its age the small cottage at the 
northeast corner of June and French streets. 
This was erected about 1750 by Charles 
Church, who was a Tory in the Revolution. 
He fled the country and his property was 
confiscated. 

The town of Freetown was incorporated 
in 1G83, but the earliest records known to 
be in existence are those of 1085. The two 
missing years were probably entered in the 
Proprietors' Records, which are lost. 

Tiverton, in which was included the part 
of the city south of the Quequechan, was 
under a kind of provisional government of 
the proprietors, to whom various orders of 
the Plymouth government had given control 
over local affairs, from the time of its pur- 
chase until March 2, 1692, when the Pocasset 
Purchase and Puncatest were incorporated 
by the State of Massachusetts as the town 
of Tiverton. The twenty-seven original free- 
men include many names still well known 
and honored in the community. They were 
Major Church, John Pearce, John Cook, 
Gersham Woodle, Richard Borden, Christo- 
pher Almy, Thomas Cory, Stephen Man- 
chester, Joseph Wanton, Forbes Manchester, 
Daniel Howland, Edward Gray, Edward 
Briggs, William Manchester, Amos Shef- 
field, Daniel Willcox, Edward Colby, Joseph 
Tabor, David Lake, Thomas Waite, Joseph 
Tallman, John Briggs. .John Cooke, William 
Almy and John Cook. Jr. In 1G98 the names 
of John Searle, Josiah Stafford, Benjamin 
Chace, Robert Dennis, Gersham Manchester. 
William Durfee, Thomas Cook, Jethro Jef- 
fries and Samuel Snell also appear as own- 
ers of real estate. The town was formally 
annexed to Rhode Island on the readjust- 
ment of the boundary line and was incor- 
porated in that State. A census taken ten 
years later gives the population of the town 
as 1,040, of whom 842 were whites, 9!) 
negroes and 99 Indians. 

Statistics of the population of Freetown 
aibout this time show that in 1765 there were 
1,492 inhabitants; in 1776, 1901; in 1790, 
2,202; and in 1800, 2,535. 

The possibilities of the water power of 
the Quequechan, which was later to have a 
most important part in developing the city 
as a center of manufacturing, were early 
rect^nized, and in the first division of the 
Pocasset Purchase, In 1680, the proprietors 
reserved a tract on the south of the stream. 



10 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



thirty rods wide and including the water 
power, which was known as the mill lot. 
This extended from the shore easterly to 
the vicinity of Twelfth street. 

The mill lot, like the land to the south, 
was divided into thirty shares of twenty- 
six anil one-half of which Col. Benjamin 
Church and his brother, Caleb, a millwright, 
of Watortown, became the owners. John 
Borden is thought to have held the remain- 
ing three and one-half shares. The brothers 
erected a saw mill prior to 1G91, in which 
year reference is made to it in the deed by 
which Caleb conveyed his half of the prop- 
erty to Benjamin for £Um. By 1703 Benja- 
min had moved to Fall River and added to 
his property a grist mill and a fulling mill, 
both small concerns, standing near Main 
street and adjoining the dam, which was 
on the west side of that thoroughfare. The 
grist mill is believed to have been of the 
same dimensions as a similar mill erected 
by Caleb Church for Gabriel Bernon, at 
Watertown, which was 22xlS feet, with 11 
feet stud. The fulling mill cleansed and 
otherwise prepared the farmers' wool for 
spinning by the housewives. 

By 1714, Benjamin Church, then living 
at Luttle Comipton, sold his interest to 
Richard Borden, of Tiverton, and Joseph 
Borden, of Freetown, sons of John Borden, 
and the whole control of the water power 
of the stream passed into the hands of the 
Borden family, who retained it till the erec- 
tion of the Troy mill and Fall River Manu- 
factory in 1813. The.v had, some time before 
the Revolution, erected another grist mill 
and a saw mill at the second privilege, as 
it was called, at the foot of the hill, ne.ir 
where the Anawan mill was later built. 

Another of the early industries within 
the city limits was the tan yard on 
French's hill at the present site of tie 
Westport Mfg. Co.'s storehouse. It had 
been established early in the century by 
Joseph Read, and was sold in ISOl by the 
heirs, .loseph, Samuel and George Read 
Nathan and Nancy Bowen and Jonathan and 
Phebe Barnaby, to Enoch French, who car- 
ried it on till about ISin or '.50, and who 
gave his name to the hill. The property 
when acqtiired by him comprised one-quar- 
ter of an acre of land, with a dwelling 
house and tan yard, and was sold for $100. 

The town also established a salt works 
by vote of July 7, 1777. It was near the 
present location of the Mechanics' Mills. 
Stephen Borden. Jonathan Road and Benja- 



min Davis were appointed a comniillee to 
carry it on. Various saw and grist mills 
were also built and operated near Assonet, 
and an iron works, using bog iron ore dug 
in the town, was established in 1704. 

Of the early settlers many came from the 
island of Rhode Island, some from Plymouth 
and a few from Boston and Uuxbury. They 
were sturdy, industrious and peaceful citi- 
zens and generally well educated for their 
time, as one may judge from the small num- 
ber of legal documents in which recourse 
for signatures is had to marks. The Quakers 
predominated, and their teaching was that 
the rising generation should be well school- 
ed. This sect made its influence felt, too, 
in the kindly treatment of indenture ser- 
vants and negro and Indian slaves, of 
whom nearly every family had its quota 
and who were largely instrumental in de- 
veloping the farming lands. The Quaker 
discipline roundly condemned the slave 
itrade, and recommended kindness. The 
system was abolished by a legal decision 
following the adoption of the State Consti- 
tution in 1780. 

The life of the Colonial period here, like 
everything old, appears strangely fascinat- 
ing. It was lacking in many of the con- 
veniences of modern times, the telephone, 
telo.graph and railroad, for example, not to 
speak of running water and sanitar.v con- 
veniences in the homes, steam or furnace 
heat and hundreds of the smaller things that 
we now think almost indispensable. Yet it 
was in many ways a life that strongly ap- 
peals to the man of our times fagged out 
by the sick hurry and rush of business 
cares. The landowner here was practically 
independent. Abundant fish and game in 
the woods, and streams nearby, and his own 
cattle, sheep, swine and poultry, added to 
the vegetables raised on his land, and a 
bounteous supply of butter, eggs and milk, 
enabled him to set a generous table. It was 
lacking, probably, in some of the delicacies 
that we provide to-day for our jaded ap- 
petites, but withal was of a kind to make 
one's mouth water when he read.s of beef, 
mutton and turkey, for example, all brought 
on for the piece de resistance of an every- 
day meal. The settlers also had fruits in 
abundance from the orchards which they 
had carefully planted, and thus from the 
point of view of their inner men. were well 
provided for. Their own corn and wheat 
were ground into meal and (lour almost at 
their (I(K)rs, and aboul all that it was abso- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



lutely necessary for them to purohasi- for 
their table was tea and cofteo, spices, sugar 
and molasses. Cider they made in generous 
quantities from their own apples each fall, 
and supplemented with supplies of New 
E>ngland and Jamaica rum, port wine and 
gin, which were then l<ept in nearly every 
house to be offered to guests. They were 
used in moderation, however, and intoxica- 
tion was probably no more prevalent than 
tiMlay. 

The cattle and sheep did more than pro- 
vide food, for their hides or skins were 
tanned by the local tanner, who took his 
pay in kind, and each man was thus pro- 
vided with leather, calf-skin and sheep-skin 
against the occasional visits of the travelling 
shoemaker, who, when he came, was ex- 
pected to make shoes enough to last the 
family till he came again. Most of the other 
clothing of all members of the family was 
made of wool from the backs of the sheep 
kept on the farm, which had been prepared 
at the fiiilling mill on the stream, and spun, 
dyed and woven into cloth by the women 
of the home. Flax foi- linen was also 
raised and used to some extent, but very 
little for clothing. 

A majority of the inhabitants were 
Quakers, and their garments were of the 
plain and unostentatious drab advised by 
the discipline of the meeting. Among the 
Congregational members of the community, 
however, there was probably more attention 
to apparel, for during this period the dandies 
of the old world flourished in the glories of 
silks and satins of rich hues, with slashed 
doublets, knee breeches, silver buckles and 
powdered hair. These fashions were copiel 
in Boston, Newport and Providence, and 
doubtless in a smaller measure by the citi- 
zens of Freetown whose purse and con- 
science allowed them to do so. The same 
was true of the ladies. 

The houses of the colonists varied, ol 
course, as do the dwellings of their descend- 
ants to-day. Timber was at hand in almost 
unmeasured quantities and in the erection 
of dwellings was used with a generosity that 
would bankrupt the builder of the twentieth 
century. The dimensions of floor beams, 
and sills and rafters now cause a smile, but 
the structures were built to last and have 
done so in many cases even to this day. 
Tne kitchen was usually the main living 
room and the largest in the house. The bed 
rooms were almost invariably small. Chim- 
neys were of huge size and built of stone. 



with cranes for the pots and kettles and a 
brick oven at the side. The wood firo was 
built here on andirons set on a massive 
hearth with a big, green backlog in front. 
No stoves were used to any extent till the 
nineteenth century. The furniture was of 
the kind familiar to all by the specimens 
that have been handed down as heirl(K>ms, 
and was made by travelling cabinet-makers. 
A stock of furniture, includin.g the high- 
posted 'bedsteads, dressers and chests, was 
then as much a part of every bride's outfit 
as her linen is to-day. Candles, of course, 
were used for light, and, like the soap and 
many other household articles, were made 
in the home. 

The employment of the master and his 
men was like that of the farmer of the 
present the care of his stock and crops and 
the cutting of wood, to which was added 
the clearing of new land. His children mar- 
ried young and brought up large families. 
Ten or twelve boys and girls were the com- 
mon number in each family, and fifteen, 
seventeen and even nineteen were not un- 
known. There was something beside the 
fertility of the parents in this; labor was 
scarce and the assistance of the younger 
generation was needed in developing the 
country. The marriages, like modern ones, 
varied considerably in the amount of dis- 
play and merrymaking. Those among the 
Friends were quiet and in accordance with 
their simple customs, while among the peo- 
ple of the world there was likely to be more 
of festivity. The funerals were often the 
occasion of extended remarks by the clergy, 
a custom that survives to-day in rural dis- 
tricts. Nearly every farm had its burying- 
ground, with usually a corner set aside for 
the graves of the slaves. 

The Sabbath was observed with a greater 
degree of strictness than to-day, in accord- 
ance with the laws made in the State house 
at Puritan Boston, though not all the man- 
dates of the Solons there assemhled were 
so zealously respected. Among the Con- 
gregationalists the I.«rd's Day was consider- 
ed to begin at sunset on Saturday and 
end with the setting of the sun the follow- 
ing day. It was observed by services for 
worship with sermons of great length. The 
Friends held the services peculiar to their 
sect and considered the Sabbath over at the 
end of the afternoon meeting. There were, 
however, the meetings on Wednesdays and 
the monthly, quarterly and yearly gatherings. 

The Indian and negro slaves, to whose 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



kindly treatment refereiuce has been made 
I'lhowhere, were often freed by the wills 
of their masters on certain conditions, like 
faithfulness to the widow. Provision was 
often made in these testaments for their sus- 
tenance by the bequest of two or three acres 
of land, with a small house and furniture. 
In one case, at least, it is ordered that a 
negro thus freed shall annually pay to the 
son of the testator a small sum of money in 
trust, to be used for his care in case of ill- 
ness. Pews for the blacks were provided 
in a remote corner of the church, and their 
Siraves were also in a corner of their mas- 
ters" buryinRground. 

There were two taverns, one at Brightman 
street, near Slades Ferry, kept by the 
Itrightman family, and the other at the cor- 
ner of North Main and Central streets, run 
in 1738 by Stephen Horden and a popular 
place till it gave way to a hotel erected 
near by in 1803. For evildoers stocks were 
erected in 1690, from the proceeds of a 
special assessment on the taxpayers. They 
stood near the meeting-house, about two 
miles above Steep Brook, at the present 
Fieetown line, but were seldom used, and 
appear to have been discontinued about the 
middle of the century. 

Of newspapers there were none here, of 
course, but In Boston the weekly News- 
Letter had been established as early as 
1704, and had been followed by others, while 
in Newport the publication of a weekly had 
been begun In 1732. By 1768 a newspaper 
was being published twice a week in Bos- 
ton. The circulation of these papers was 
small, but it is only fair to assume that 
some copies occasionally, at least, reached 
this vicinity and were read. No large col- 
lections of books were to be found in any 
homes, still there were some. The publica- 
tions of the day most widely read related to 
theological controversy, for the age was ar- 
gumentative and the war of words on mat- 
I; rs of creed was bitter. Cotton Mather, 
George Fox and Roger Williams were among 
the writers of note. There were also the 
narratives of those who Itad been captured 
by Indians, histories of Indian wars and 
early settlements, and some poetry. The 
latter, however, makes but sad reading to- 
day. It was in the style of the Bay Psalm 
Hook, and later followed the artiflcial models 
of the school of Pope, though but clumsily. 
The romance and the drama were con- 
(l nined as vanities mid hul tittle allowed. 



Still, the settlers in this section were far 
from being extremists. They were at sufli- 
cicnt distance from Boston to escape tlie 
Puritan severity, though under its jurisdic- 
ti(<n, and never were tempted to burn 
witches. Besides, many had come from lib- 
eial Rhode island and Plymouth, and, espe- 
cially in the later days, a very considerable 
proportion were ot the gentle faith of the 
P'riends. They were iirosperous and lived 
comfortably. The hard days of the Revolu- 
tion made themselves lelt, of course, but in 
the years that followed a great demand 
for wood sprang up, and many residents 
who had timber in abundance made them- 
.selves independently well off by the sale 
of it to their less fortunate neighbors at 
Newixirt. 

Every tanner of importance in these days 
was a shij) carpenter and had his own vessel, 
us-,ually a sloop of 35 or 40 tons, of the kind 
which could be built in the woods and trans- 
ported to the shore, in which he and his 
family made their trijis to Providence, New- 
port and even to New York. Some members 
of the family were usually seamen, and a 
number of them served in the Revolutionary 
navy. Others entered privateering, and 
numbers who sailed away in larger ships 
never returned, and no news of their fate, 
whether in storm or at the hands of iiirates, 
ever reached their families here. 

The custom house for this section was 
established soon after the Revolution, at 
Dighton, and the records for the period from 
1782 on show a large number of the small 
vessels referred to re.gisteied from Free- 
town. There was, for examjile. the "Two 
Brothers," a sloop of 36 tons, square-sterned. 
with one deck, no gallery and no head, 
owned by Simeon Borden and commanded 
by Samuel Borden. She was 48 feet 7 
inches in length, with 15 feet 10 inches 
beam and a depth of 5 feet 8 inches. Others 
of about the same size were William Reed's 
■Defiance." Darius Chace's "Wealthy." God- 
frey Bri,ggs' "Quickstep." Philip Hathaway's 
"Polly" and Ebenezer Payne's of the same 
name. Ephraim Briggs' "King Fisher," Ed 
niund Briggs' "Hard Times." .lonathan 
Read's "Ranger." Isaac Brightman's "Han- 
nah." Zebulum White's "Lively," John 
llilggs' "Dolphin," George Brightman's 
"Rainbow," Luther WInsIow's "Mayflower, 
Noah Chace's "Betsey." Dudley Hathaway's 
"Randolph." Walter Challoner's "Swallow," 
.lonatliaii llowcn's ".Mary," Benjaiuin Bright- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



13 



man's "Dolphin," Gilbert Chace's "CUartley 
Ann," Edmond Valentine's "Arethusa," 
Nathan Briggs' "Sally," Ueriah Allen's "Lib- 
erty" and many others. Larger vessels were 
also built, schooners and then brigs, running 
to about 1:25 tons. 

The main wharf was where ihe Rodman 
wharf of the Staples Coal Company now is, 
with another at Slade's Ferry, and one at 
about every farm farther north. Assonet 
was then the metropolis of the town, with 
Steep Brook a close rival, which at one time 
attained the dignity of no less than six gro- 
cery stores. 

In the Pocasset Purchase, the present 
Plymouth avenue had been laid out 
and reserved for a street, but there 
was no such reservation in the Free- 
men's Purchase, though the highways 
were left open by common consent. At 
the Narrows, where, as the name sug- 
gests, the land jutted out, no bridge was 
erected till the ponds were raised by a dam 
in 1826, and the shallows were crossed 
either on stones or by fording at "the wad- 
ing place," as it was styled. A narrow 
Iilauk bridge was early erected over the 
Quequechan, on the main road, but this was 
occasionally destroyed by water and had 
to be renewed. There was then a consider- 
able pond to the east of the main road, mak- 
ing north to Bedford street, which was filled 
in with earth secured by cutting down the 
hill near Troy street. 

The Taunton River was crossed a lit- 
tle north of the present Slade's Ferry 
bridge. This had been an Indian place lor 
crossing from the earliest days, and it was 
near by that Weetamoe was drowned during 
King Philip's war. Gov. Winslow and an- 
other, possilily .John Hampden, had used this 
ferry when on their visit to Massasoit In 
1G23. The Governor relates that he fired his 
gun as a signal that he wished to pass ov'jr, 
whereupon two Indians came across and took 
him to the opposite side in a canoe. William 
Slade, for whom the ferry was named, cstaD- 
lished it soon after settling in Somerset *n 
1G89. At his death it passed to his eldest 
son, .Jonathan, who at his decea/.o without 
issue bequeathed it to his nephew. Samuel 
Slade, and in turn it passed by death to 
Jonathan, William and William L. Slade. 
Following rowboats, sailboats were used, 
with the horses of travellers swimming the 
stream; then a boat projielled by horses, on 
which the stages could c^ross, beginnin,^ In 



1S26, and steamers, the Faith in 1847 and the 
Weetamoe In 1S47, till the opening of the 
bridge in 1876. Tho fare was established by 
statute, and in later times was 2a cents. A 
competition line was run for a while by the, 
Brightmans, with a landing on this side 
near the Weetamoe mills, and there was 
also a ferry at Steep Brook, after the laying 
out of the Blossom Road by the court June 
10, 1773, gave a direct road by this route 
from Providence to New Bedford. 

This last named road had been petitioned 
for the year before by residents of the sec- 
tion beyond the pond who were unable to 
reach the town moeting-liouse by a direct 
road. The Selectme.i approved the petition, 
but landowners objecteil and it was neces- 
sary to go to the courts. It ran from th« 
old New Bedford road near what is now 
called Wordell's ccrner, along the line of 
the present Blossom road northerly, and 
then westerly over Wilson road, reaching 
the Main road at Steep Brook, rho New 
Boston road was laid out February 23, 1790, 
;;ih1 ran from Wilson road southerly to the 
south end of the Freomens Purchas;e — near 
the corner of Bedford and Quarry streets. 

The Rhode Island boundary question, 
which was not to be definitely settled till it 
had been passed on by the Supreme Court 
of the United States many years later, came 
up several times prior to 1800. It went back 
to the original (diartor of the colony of 
Plymouth, granted in 3G29, by which the 
western limits of the Plymouth govornmont 
were placed as the middle of the waters of 
the "Narraganse-ct River." Tho charter 
granted to Rhode Island in 1663 extended 
her eastern bound?.ry three miles east and 
northeast of the bay into Plymouth terri- 
tory. The latter objected, and on appeal to 
the King her claim was sustained by a 
royal commission. Tiverton and Little 
Compton were then a part of Plymouth and 
became a section of Massachusetts on the 
consolidation of the two governments. The 
boundary between Freetown and Tiverton 
was at the Quequechan River — the cleft 
rock, to be exact. 

In 1740 Rhode Island applied to tho Ki.^g 
for a re-examination of her eastern bound- 
ary, and George II., in pursuance of his pol- 
icy to lessen the power of Massachusetts, 
appointed a commission which eslablishetl 
the line in 1741, confirmed by the King May 
2?, 1746. by which Tiverton and Little 
Compton and three other towns were adder" 



H 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



to Rhode Island. To define the new bound- 
ary the colonies were to appoint surveyors 
to establish the bounds. The line between 
Freetown and Tiverton, by the decision ol 
the commission, was to run from a point i n 
the shore 440 rods south of the Quequechan. 
Rhode Island at once appointed men to run 
the line, but instead of measuring 440 roc's 
south in a straight line, they followed the 
windings of the shore around the print 
works point and Crab Pond, starling the line 
from a point near the loot of Division street, 
whence it ran northeasterly through the 
large buttonwood tree on South Main street, 
a little south of Spring, long a landmark 
here, and crossing Pleasant street near the 
Merchants mill. The line was run by Rhode 
Island men alone and was accepted by Miia- 
sachusetts as correct until 1791. when this 
State appointed commissioners to examine 
and found that her territory had been con 
siderably infringed upon. No agreement 
could be reached with Rhode Island, how- 
ever, and the matter lay over till it was 
brought up again in 1S44 and the line even- 
tually fixed in its jjresent location in 18()2 

Lands for the few Indians who renuuned 
in this section were early set aside, for a 
brief period after 1704, on Stafford road, 
just south of the present State line, and 
later east of the Watuppa ponds, where the 
Indian reservation still is. In the earliest 
days the number of Indians on these tracts 
was considrrable, but by intermarriage with 
other races and removal it has dwindled till 
now the reservation is occupied by but a 
single family, and that has probably but a 
slight strain of Indian blood. 

The Stafford mad lands first set apart 
were formerly the property of Daniel Wil 
cox, but he, having been convicted of "high 
misdemeanors," had been arrestijd in 1G81 
and fined C150. He escaped into Rhode 
Island, but in 1701 he proi)osed to convey to 
the province for the satisfaction of the lino, 
whiich was still unpaid, IGO acns of Uuul on 
Stafford road. The offer was accepted and 
the estate became State property. Three 
years later, in February, 1704, the Indians 
residing in the southern part of Hristol 
County petitioned the Governor for the as- 
signment to them as persons who had been 
very serviceable to the Crown in the re- 
cent wars with the Indians, of a tract of 
land for a plantation, "where they may set- 
tle together In an Orderly way and have the 
benefit of ilie ministry & settling a school 



for instructing of their children." The peti- 
tion was granted and the Wilcox land given 
them during the government's pleasure. 

In 1707 another petition was allowed for 
the exchange of this land for 160 acres east 
of the pond belonging to Col. Henjamin 
Church, the present reservation. In 
Church's deed exchanging the property, 
which bears the date of April 4, 1709, the 
new reservation is described as "lyeing more 
commodious for the Indian settlemt & 
more Remote from the English." Thti land 
i6 transferred to the province with the con- 
dition "But allways to be Continued & used 
for a plantation & settlement for the Indian 
Natives . . . Divers of whom have b'jen 
very serviceable in the present &. former 
Wars and some of them brought up in Eng- 
lish families." A curious provision for rent 
appears in the words "to be holden of Ik r 
Majesties Government of ye sd Province 
by the sd Indians & their heires forever 
yielding to the Goverur of thu sd Province 
for the time being upon ye tenth day of De- 
cember, yearly. One quarter of good venison 
in Lieu of all Rents & services, not to be 
Assigned or Alienated but continued an In 
dian Plantation forever." 

The land was divided among the various 
families and by "the honorable board ol 
London commissioners for propagating ye 
Christian knowledge among the natives," a 
s.choolhouse was erected in 1772, as appears 
by the petition for the laying out of Rlos 
som road in that year. Sabbath services 
were also held here. The land was resur 
veyed and again divided, in 17G4, this time 
among twenty-eight families But nine of 
the IGO acres were then under cultivation 
In 181S, by order of the General Court, all 
Indians were placed under the guardianshi|i 
or' the State and all land reserved for them 
except what was cultivated was made com- 
mon. 

A State commissioner's report in 18G2 
showed 78 dea^endants of Indians in this 
section, only 21 of whom were on the reser- 
vation. Little land was cultivated, and they 
were found to be indolent, negligent and of 
low moral condition. The children then at 
tended the public schools. Some of the 
names were Peter Washunk. Sarah Titticut, 
Sarah Quam. Hope Penny, Mercy Hope. 
Isaac Church. Hannah Mouse. Itfujaniin 
S()uannamay. Tln-*-e was also an Indian 
doctiii' named Perry. 



CHAPTER III 



IN THE REVOLUTION 



Patriots and Tories. The Battle of Fall River. Resolutions on Boston Tea Party and 
Declaration ot Independence. Schools and Churches 



The town of Freetown, of which Fall 
River was then a ijart, had an excellent rec- 
ord in the Revolution. Though at first under 
Tory influence, the patriots here rallied 
piomptly and by word and deed took their 
stand in favor of liberty and independence. 
The southern ami eastern sections were 
strongly patriotic, but in conservative Asso- 
net there were many Tories. The latter ap- 
pear to have been successful at a town 
meeting in January, 1744, at which the de- 
struction of tea in Boston harbor was con- 
demned in strong resolutions. 

The tea had been thrown overboard on 
Ufccember 16, and on January S, pursuant to 
a request of a number of inhabitants for a 
n'eeting to consider the affair, such a meet- 
ing was called to be held at the middle 
school house January 17. Captain George 
Chase was moderator, and "after sum De- 
bates and Duuly Considering ye bad Conse- 
(H;ences which probably may arise from ye 
proceeding," it was decided that the town 
should act on the matter, and a committee 
was appointed to prepare resolutions, which 
v/eru adopted on January 26. These criti- 
cised the town of Boston for allowing the 
ii'cident, declared that Freetown abhorred, 
detested and forever bore testimony against 
such acts, and instructed the representative 
in the General Court to use his utmost en- 
deavor to prevent in the future all such 
"Riotous and Mobish proceedings." Fear 
was expressed that the affair "will bring 
upon us tho Vengeance of an Affronted Ma- 
jesty, and also piunge us in Debt and Misery 
when ye Injured owners of sd Tea shall 
make there Demand for ye Valine of ye 
Same," and it was ordered that thu vote be 
"farely Recorded in ye Town Book" and a 
copy sent to the press "that ye World may 
know our minds Respecting our libertys and 
Good Government, and ye Resolutions we 



have, to obey ye good Laws of our land, 
which under God for so long this Province 
hiive been happy in ye lujoymeut of." The 
committee which drew up these resolutions 
consisted of Thomas Gilbert, Abiel Terry, 
James Winslow, Jail Hathaway, and Jesse 
Bullock. 

The sentiment changed quickly, however, 
for at a town meeting on September 19 of 
the same year, agreeable to the request of 
the Taunton icommittee to choose represen- 
tjatives to confer with those of other towns 
in the county as to "measures proper to us 
in our deplorable circumstances," Thomas 
DurfMe, Captain Ambrose Barnaby, Dr. John 
Turner, Nathaniel Morton and Joshua Hatha- 
way were selected "to consult the neigh- 
boring committees in said county and else- 
where as they shall think most for the good 
of the county respecting the dispensation of 
government at this critical day." 

The committee, with others, met at the 
Court House at Taunton September 2S, 1771. 
with Zephaniel Leonard, Ksq , chairman. 
I'atriotic speechqs were made and resolu- 
tions unanimously adopted that they were 
"determined at the risk of their fortunes and 
their livels to defend their natua-al and 
compaicted rights" and "oppose to tlieir ut- 
most all illegal and unconstitutional meas- 
uras which have been or hereafter may be 
adopted by the British Parliament or the 
British Ministry." 

Thirty-one men under Captain Levi Roun- 
seville respoi^ded to the first call, April 19. 
1775, usually known as the Lexington alarm. 
They were Lieutenants Samuel Taber and 
Natt Morton, Sergeants John White and 
Consider Crapo, Corporals Joshua Lawrence 
and Seth Hillman and Privates Philip 
Taber, Uriel Pierce, Benj. Lawrence, 
Abiel Cole, Consider White, Jesse Keen, 
Jacob Benson, John Clark, John Braley, Per- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



cival Ashley, Ichabod Johnson, Michael Ash- 
ley, Seth Jlorton, Jeff Sachems, Israel Has- 
kell, Louis DeMorauville, Abiam Ashley, 
Charles DeMoranville, Aaron Seekel, Abner 
Haskins, Benjamin Runnells, Thomas 
Rounsvill, Peter Crapo and Joseiih Hacket. 

The town also furnished a number for ser- 
vice in the field, especially against the Brit- 
ish on Rhode Island. At a town meeting 
May 10, 1775, it was voted to care for the 
families of poor soldiers, and at a meeting 
the following March a committee of corre- 
s)'ondence, inspection and safety was se- 
lected and boats ordered built for the town's 
use "to cross the river in if our enemies 
should attack our friends on the opposite 
shore." The articles of confederation were 
approved February 10, 1777. 

At a town meeting July 15, 177G, with 
Stephen Borden moderator, resolutions 
drawn up by Major Joshua Hathaway, Col. 
James Winslow and John Hathaway as a 
committee, declaring strongly in favor of the 
recently signed Declaration of Independence, 
were adopted. These were as follows: — 

"Whereas, George, the Third, King of 
Create Britain, in Violation of ye Principles 
of British Constitution and of the Laws ot 
Justice and Humanity, Hath, by an accumu 
lation of oppressions unpariled in history, 
excluded ye Inhabitants of this as well as 
ye other neighboring CoUones from his Pro- 
tection; and whereas, he hath paid no re- 
garde to any of our Remonstrances and 
DutiefuU petitions for redress of our Coni- 
Ijlicated Grevinces, but hath purchased for- 
eign Troops to assist in Enslaving us and 
Enciteed ye Savages of this Countery to Carry 
on a war aaginst us, as also ye Negroes, to 
imbru their hands in ye Blood of their mas- 
ters in a manner unpractised by Civilised 
-Nations, and moreover hath Lately insulted 
our Calematyes by Declaring that he will 
have no mercy on us till he hath Subdued 
us; and, whereas, the obligations of alegence 
being reciprocal between ye King and his 
subjects, are now dissolved on ye side of 
ye Collonies by ye Dispotism and Declara- 
tion of ye King, insomuch that Loyalty to 
him is Treason against the good people ot 
this Countery; and, whereas, not only ye 
parllment, but there is Great reason to be- 
leavc Too many of ye people of Great Brit- 
ain have concured in ye aforesd arbitrary 
and unjust proceedings Against us: and. 
whereas, the Publiick Virtue of this Collony. 



so essential to its Liberty and happiness 
must be indangered by a futer political 
union with, or Dependence on, a Croun and 
nation so lost to patriotism and magnanim- 
ty; VV'e, the Inhabitants of Freetown, in pub- 
lick Town meeting assemble, for giving in- 
structions to our representetivo by Direction 
from ye general Court, Do in publick Town 
meeting Vote and declare, and Direct our 
reiM-esentetive to Declare in ye general Court 
that we are ready with our Lives and for- 
tunes To Support the General Congress in 
Declaring the united American Colonies free 
and independent of Create Britain, and also 
Direct our said representetive to move in 
the General Court for ye Delegates for this 
Colony to be Directed to move for, and give 
votes for, said Independence, provided, that 
the internal police of this Government Be 
allwaise left to the people of the said Col- 
ony, and we declare to all ye world that we 
do not make this Declaration out of pride or 
Knvy, but By the Dictates of the Laws ot 
Nature, and appeal to ye Supreme Governor 
o\' the world for our Sincerity in the Dec- 
laration." 

The graves of a number of Revolutionary 
soldiers buried here have been marlied by 
the Sons of the American Revolution and 
are as follows: In the North Steep Brook 
burying ground. Captain James Simmonds 
and Benjamin Weaver; in the North bury- 
ing ground. Colonel Joseph Durfee, Thomas 
Durfee and Robert Irving; in the Oak Grove 
Cemetery, Epbraim Boomer, Elisha Caswell 
and Benjamin Peck. 

One of these. Colonel Joseph Durfee, took 
an active part in the war and was prom- 
inent in the fight with the British here. May 
2.3, 177S. ot which he has left a graphic ac- 
ccunt. The British were then holding the 
southern end of the island of Rhode Island 
and with the aid of their fleet continually 
harassed the towns on the bay, including 
Freetown. In the fall of 1777, oi; his return 
from service In the field. Colonel Durfee saw 
the need of a guard for thu protection of the 
citizens, and secured the consent of the 
authorities to form one. What followed is 
best told in his own words: 

"I soon raised a guard, procured the store 
now standing at the end of the Iron Works 
Conii)any's wharf, in this placo for a guard- 
house, where we met every day. called the 
roll, and stationed seivlinels for the night 
to watch the movements of the enemy and 
give llii- alartn when apjiroached. The or- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



17 



ders of the sentinel were peremptory — that 
if a boat was seen approaching in the night 
to hail them three times, and if no answer 
was received to tire upon them. It was not 
long before one of the guard, Samuel Reed, 
discovered boats silently and cautiously ap- 
proaching the shore from the bay. The chal- 
lenge was given but no answur received. He 
tired upon the boats. This created an alarm, 
and the whole neighborhood was soon in 
arms. I stationed the guard behind a stone 
wall, and kept up a constant fire upon the 
enemy until they brought thmr cannon to 
bear upon us, and commenced firing grape 
shot amongst us — when, as we were unable 
to return the compliment, it was deemed ad- 
visable to ratreat. Two of the guard were 
sent to remove all the planks which laid 
over the stream for foot people to cross 
upon, and to cut off, as far as possible, every 
facility for crossing the stream, except the 
upper bridge. We then retreated slowly 
until we reached the main road, near where 
the bridge now crosses the stream. I then 
gave orders to form and give them battle. 
This was done, and never were soldiers 
more brave. So roughly were the enemy 
handled by our little band of Spartans that 
they soon beat a retreat, leaving behind 
them one dead and another bl(3eding to 
death, besides the wounded whom they car- 
ried away. 

"The wounded soldier left by the enemy, 
before! he expired, informed me that the 
number of the enemy who attacked us was 
about 150, commanded by Major Ayres. 
When the enemy landed they set fire to the 
house of Thomas Borden, theo nearly new. 
They next set fire to a grist mill and a saw 
mill belonging to Mr. Borden, standing at 
the mouth of Fall River. These buildings I 
saw when set on fire. When the British 
troops retreated, as they were compelled to 
do, from the shots of our little band of vol- 
unteers, they set fire to the house and other 
buildings of Richard Borden, then an aged 
man, and took him prisoner. We pursued 
them so closely in their retreat that we were 
enabled to save the building which they had 
last fired. The British were frequently fired 
upon and not a little annoyed by the mus- 
ketry of our soldiers, as they passed down 
the bay in their boats on their retreat. Mr. 
Richard Borden, whom they took prisoner, 
was in one of their boats. Finding them- 
selves closely pitrsued by a few Amarican 
soldiers, who from the shore poured in their 



shot and balls upon them as fast as they 
could load and fire, and finding themselves 
in danger from the musketry of these few 
brave Whigs, who pursued them, they or- 
dered Mr. Borden, their prisoner, to stand 
up in the boat, hoping that his comrades 
on the shore would recognize him and do- 
sist from firing upon them. But this he 
refused to do; and threw himself flat into 
the bottom of the boat. While laying there, 
a shot from the Americans on shore killed 
one of the British soldiers standing by his 
side in the boat. Mr. Borden was obstinately 
silent to all the questions which were asked 
him; so that not being able to maka any 
profitable use of him, they dismissed him in 
a few days on parole. The engagement took 
place on a Sabbath morning on the 25th of 
May, 1778. The two British soldiers killed 
in this engagfiment were buried al twelve 
o'clock on the same day of the battle, near 
where the south end of the Massasoit factory 
now stands." 

The site of this battle was marked by a 
bronze tablet eretcted by the Quequechan 
Chapter, D. A. R., May 25, 1S99, on the south- 
west corner of the City Hall. 

The Tories here were chielly of the older, 
more wealthy and conservative inhabitants, 
who had become so accustomed to the estab- 
lished order that they hesitated to risk se- 
curity under the new and who found tlie 
shifting of allegiance from King to colony 
too difficult. Soma who in earlier years liail 
been Tories, like Captain Ambrose liarnaby, 
and Captain Levi Rounseville, were later 
brought to the patriot cause and were active 
in its support. Captain Rounseville, indeed, 
was in command of thei Minute Men who re- 
sponded to the Lexington alarm, and Captain 
I'arnaby also did much in the cause of lib- 
erty. 

The most prominent of all the loyalist.s 
was Colonel Thomas Gilbert, of Assonet. t 
veteran of the French and Indian war, and 
the head of tha second regiment of militia, 
to which the Freetown companies belonged 
He was the town's representative in the 
(Jeneral Court and chairman of the commit 
te« which drew up the resolutions express- 
ing abhorrence at the Boston tea party. 
Early in 1775, by direction of General Gage, 
at Boston, he stored considerable quanti- 
ties of war material and or.i^ani/.ed ;!ui> iiieu 
of this county for quelling any uprisiiig in 
this section. Two tliou.'^and Whigs from 
olbej- towns marched on the foive, but Col 



18 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



onel Gilbert, learning of their approach, took 
v/hat he could of ihe munitions and, with 
Home of his followers fled to an Unglish war 
vessel at Newport. The arms and ammimi- 
tion left behind were seized and -H men, 
V. ho had enlisted under Gilbert, were cap- 
tured, but released on promises of belter b-^ 
havior. This was on April 9, ten days before 
the battle of Lexington. Colonel Gilbert's 
P'cperty was couhscated. 

Another activu Tory was Samuel Valen- 
tine, though not the only one, as appears 
from a li.^t of 26 men, voted for trial May 31, 
1777. 

Hut very little knowledge of the schooi.3 
o'' the Colonial period has come down to us. 
The children wore not without instruction 
in the elementary subjects of reading, writ- 
ing and arithmetic, however, for it was 
firmly fixed in the minds of the fathers that 
the educating of their offspring was a sol- 
tunn religious duty. This was emphasized 
by the early enactment of a law compelling 
every town of fifty families to maintain a 
public school and every town of 100 families 
one to fit pupils for Harvard College, lo 
this community, too, the teaching of the 
Friends' Discipline that members of the 
meeting should give special care to the in 
struction of the young was of great weight, 
tor a large number of the settlers belonged 
to that faith and oarly established their own 
school system, by which the Quaker chil- 
dren were taught, usually by women, .it 
homes of members of the society. 

The first mention of schools in the town 
records appears in 1702. when Robert Dur- 
fee was chosen agent to secure a man to 
dispense the gospel and teach the chi.dren 
reading and writing. This double service as 
minister and pedagogue was common in the 
colonies and continued to be so for many 
years. William Way was the first school- 
Piaster, elected in 1704. it appears, and re- 
mained till three years later, when he was 
dismissed by vote of the town. 

The next date on which the matter of 
schools appears Is May 5. 1718, when Jacob 
iiaihaway was chosen "to seek for a school- 
master." In October of that year Thomas 
Roberts was hired lo teach for t?.fi a ye>ar, 
the llrst third of the period at the north end 
of the town, the next third at the meeting 
hmise and the last third at or near .lohn 
Howland's. which .was within the limits of 
the present city. Holierts probably did not 
stay more than three years, for in 1721 it 



was voted to seek a new man, and in the 
following year William Caswell was voted 
£3U, to teach for a year, with the under- 
standing tuat hu was lo be at all cost for 
boarding himself. William Gaige was au- 
otner early teacher. There were years, how- 
ever, when public educational facilities weru 
few, for the town was repeatedly indicted 
tor not having a schoolmaster as the law 
diiocted. 

The first record of schoolhouses appears in 
1722 in a vote to erect two buildings "at the 
niivdle of each hai^ of the town from the 
meeting-house or centre," and in li27 it was 
ordered that a school to be erected should 
be 18 by 14 feet, seventy pounds were ap- 
propriated for meeting the expense of thu 
three structuies. The dimensions and cost 
given show that the buildings of this time 
were far different from the modern struc- 
tures, and even as late as 1791, when the 
town was divided into seven school districts 
and a vote passed for the erection of new 
houses, they had not greatly increased. The 
Ingest of thete, for district No. 3, between 
Steep 13i-ook and Assonet, where there were 
58 families, was but 25% by 20 feet. The 
s.chool in district No. 1, near the centre ot 
Fall River, was 24x20, and was to accommo- 
date the pupils from 47 families. District 
No. 2, to the north of this, had a building of 
the srimc dimensions and .52 families. 

These sclioolhousi* were, of course, but 
one story high, and were built with an eye 
single to utility. The walls wore covered 
with pine boards and plastered and a small 
entry partitioned off at the front. Opposite 
the teacher's desk was a large fireplace in 
which four-foot wood was burned, and run- 
ning around the side of the room in several 
rows were rough benches for the pupils 
with desks for the older scholars of two-loot 
planks. There were no receptacles for 
I'ooks and slates, unless here and the^-e an 
individual drawer. The teacher's desk was 
equally plain — ^a frame of jilaned pine boards 
standing four and a half feet high. The win- 
dows wer.i small and without shades, and 
ll.iie were no maps or pictures. 

Reading, writing and arithmetic were the 
principal studies. For the first the Bible 
was a favorite, and later the New lilngland 
I'rinier. For penmanship, in which the pu- 
|:ils took much pride if they did well, for 
griiiceful chlrograpl.y was considered a no- 
ti.ble accoinpllshiiienl. there were copies set 
1>.> the teacher, whose' duly it also was lo 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



mend the goose-quills used for pens. The 
amnmetic was mostly done by rules, easily 
learned and applied, and while the examples 
set often involved laborious calculations, 
luey did not tax the mental powers or de- 
velop the reasoning ao.iities as do the prob- 
lems given to the school children of to-day. 
Spelling was also taught, but history, geog- 
raphy, nature study and other subjects 
brought into the schools of this century re- 
ceived but scant notice. 

The early town records are still preserved 
in itha old town of freetown, and copies of 
them are kept in the City Clerk's office here. 
The records are not in chronological order 
at the first, and the minutes appear to have 
been written whqrever a convenient place 
offered. The first entry is the birth of Abi- 
gail Makepeace, and is followed by the rec- 
ord of the election and swearing in of vari- 
ous offlcsrs, including Thomas Freejove as 
tuning man. There are also numerous rec- 
ords of the ear-marks of domestic animals 
bi;.onging to citizens of the town, of which 
".Joseph Dunham his earmark on his creii- 
tures is a fork on the left ear and a half- 
penny on each side of the same" is a typical 
example. Regulations for horses, swine 
and sheep that were allowed to go at large, 
fines for non-attendance at town meeting, 
provisions for scout duty and the licensing 
of Indians who came here to hunt, and the 
appropriation of 15 shillings to build a town 
stocks, after the town had been indicted for 
not having one, throw considerable light on 
the life of the period. 



A frequent subject for consideration at 
town meetings was tha matter of a town 
minister, in accordance with the law of the 
colony. The local residents appear to have 
had little sympathy for this, and were re- 
peatedly indicted for failure to provide such 
an officer. The early schoolmasters were 
scmetimes also expected to act as minis- 
ters, but objections were raised that they 
were not duly approved by the ministers of 
the neighboring towns, as the law required. 
I.i 1707 the town voted to appeal to the 
Bishop of London to supply a clergyman, 
possibly hoping thereby to escape the ex- 
pense of the minister's salary, as well as an- 
noy tha Puritan State Magistrates, and this 
vote was frequently cited as an objection 
when aiiempts were later made to elect a 
Congregational clergyman. Joseph Avery, 
Jonathan Dodson, Thomas Craighead, James 
McSparron and Silas Brett were among the 
official ministers of the town at this period. 

A meeting-house 26x36 feet and IS feet be- 
tween joints was completed in 1714. on land 
given for tha purpose by Samuel Lynde. It 
stood on the main road, near the present 
line between Freetown and Fall Kiver. 
Twenty pounds toward the cost were given 
by thd General Court. 

The Friends were long the largest and 
most powerful denomination in the town. 
Iheir meeting-house was erected not far 
from the present Crystal Spring Uleachery, 
;ibout 172.5. 




CHAPTER IV 



FALL RIVER A TOWN 



Struggle Over the Separation From Freetown. Change of the Name. Building the 
First Mills. The Whaling Industry 



By 1800 the population of Freetown had 
ivached 2,535, and the agitation for setting 
oft the southern portion as a separate com- 
munity, which had been on foot for somo 
time, began to gain now strength. It was op- 




Strcc 



the year Runing From the South almost to 
the North Part of the town about the mid- 
dle of the Town from East to West Which 
Obliges us to Hold our Meeting at the Xorth 
End of the Town, a Distance of Eight Miles, 
& almost All the Inhabitants of the Southern 
Village Being Seafaring & Trades Men & it 
I'.eing Intirely Impossible to be Provided 
with Horses Sufficient for So Great a Pro- 
iKirtion of the Inhabitants as are and Kver 
Will be Destitute. . . ." 

.\ town meeting to consider the maticr 
was held February 4, 1S02, with Nathaniel 
Morton moderator. By a unanimous vote it 
was decided that the town should not be 
divided agreeable to this petition and fur- 
ther "that the town of Freetown shall not 
lie divided at any rate." Apparently a 
change of opinion took jilace at once, for at 
I he same meeting these votes were recon- 
sidered and a committee appoiiilid "to di 



posed by the residents of the northern 
section, however, for various reasons, and 
was a subject of discussion at several towii 
n'eetings. 

The grounds on which the desire for a 
division was based appear in the petiiton ol 
Thomas Borden and 155 others, datcid .latiu 
ary 12, 1S02. It was addressed to the Gen- 
eral Court and ran in part as follows: 

"The Subscribers inhabitants of the South 
End of Freetown Humbly Shew that the;; 
Situation in Sd town is extremely I'nlorlu 
nate Owing to Tin* great Distance the Town 
meetings are Held from them Which Can- 
not be Remidied in the Towns Present Sit- 
uation It Being in a Triangular form as by 
the Plan exhibited will appear & the princi- 
pal Sottlements Being at the three extreme 
Points & a Central Place Not Possible to be 
Olnainod There Bi'ing a U)iig Sunken 
Swamp Impassable at .\lniosl .Ml times In 




The Browner House. 285 Nortl. M.i.ii SltiCt 

Vide tile town and where In diviile the sd 
town if divided at all." Adjournment for 
one hour was taken, and on coming together 
again the committee reported a line to start 
from the Taunton river about where the 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



21 



present line is, and various recommendations 
as to sharing debts if the division were 
elTected. The report was accepted and 
Xathaniel Morton, Jr., was appointed the 
agent of the town to oppose the Uorden pe- 
tiuon in the Legislature. 

Air. -Morton represented to tha General 
Court that a division was "totally repug- 
nant to the opinion and wishes of the town 



H 





Old Free Love House. No. 1001 North Main Street 

and as much against its interest and con- 
venience. ' The valuation of Freetown, he 
taid, was only about that of the averag<? 
Massachusetts town, and a division would 
cause it to sink into corporate insignificance 
Moreover, it was "incapable of division in 
any manner or form so as to give to the 
parts when separate an equal participation 
of advantages and disadvantages." The 
southern section was represented to have 
the advantage of situation and property in 
ptopoi'tion to numbers. It had also the best 
soil by far, two-flfths of the population, one- 
half the property and 'next to no proportion 
of the iioor and a prospect of iierpelually 
having the advantage in this respect, the 
petitioners having so run the line of par- 
tition as to exclude from their plan not only 
actual paupers and expence for the poor 
with which we do and must at an unusual 
rate abound," as well as includcid the whole 
of the valuable shell fishery. The argument 
mat the petitioners were seafaring men and 
hence without horses and unable to attend 
town meetings, was met l)y the statement 
that they had a higher proportion of horses 
according to their numbers than the rest of 
the town and had in addition the means of 
easy water communication with the present 
center, an advantage of which the rest of the 
town was destitute. 



A second remonstrance was presented by 
Ptter Crapo and others living near the Dart- 
mouth line, that the proposed boundaries 
would leave them in an out-of-the-way sec- 
tion, far from the center, and render the 
maintenance of a school difficult. A third 
remonstrance from the old town asked that 
the line be placed farther south, as by the 
contemplated lino certain sections would "b;; 
left in such an anomalous, uncouth and ec- 
centric form that it will not be long before 
arother division will imdoubtodly take 
place." 

The joint committee of the* Legislature 
reported leave to withdraw, on the petition 
for division, and the rejjort was accepted 
by the Senate, but the House non-concurred 
and appointed a special committee to pro- 
ceed to Freetown, view the territory and 
consider the matter. The Senate concurred 
in this, and on February 5, 1803, reported in 
favor of a division on the lines subsequently 
established. The report was accepted and 
the petitioners given leave to bring in .-i 
bill in accordance with the report. This 
went through the several stages and the new 




Old Matthew Boomer House, No. SS9 North Main Street 

tcwn was incorporated as Pall River (spell- 
ea as one word) February 20. 1803. 

The incorporation did not put an end to 
local differences, for at a town meeting at 
Fall River, May 19, 1804, little more than 
a year later, it was voted to change the 
name of the town to Troy. This was followexl 
I);- a petition to (he General Court dated 
-May 22, 1804, and signed by 74 inhabitants, 
praying that the name of the town be 
changea. and citmg me following reasons in 
support of their request: 

"That whereasin the late division & incor- 
l>oration of this township, the inhabitants 
thereof were not consulted with regard to 



22 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



the circumstance of its name, by those who 
were entrusted with the management of the 
business, who all happc^netl to live at or 
near the river called Fall-River, & who there- 
toie procured without opiJOEition the name 
which it now bears, and altho' the consider- 
ation of its name may appear to those who 
live remote from us merely circumstantial 
and of comjiaratively little consequence, yet 
we humbly conceive that as the noted vicin- 
it> whiich has been long known by that 
nppelation is i-itiate in a very extream i.-art 




The Old Gun House on Rock Street 



■ Ecdford Sir 



of the town, the i)resent name of Fall River 
will serve no other purpoi;e but to beget and 
keep alive many local ijrojudices which will 
seiiously disturb the minds k. peace of the 
ii. habitants in general." 

The name Troy is said to have been se- 
lected because of the favorable impression 
made on a promiinent citizen by the town 
of Troy, N. Y., on a recent visit. There was 
apparently no opposition, for the bill was 
passed without amendment and became an 
act June 18, 1804. 

The new title of the town was retained 
nearly thirty years, till 1S33, when a petition 
to the General Court was presented, signed 
by Bbeney.or Andrews and 134 others, asking 
that the name be changed back to Fall River. 
They represented that on account of the 
fact that there were eight or nine towns 
and villages l)earlng the name of Troy thedr 
loiters and packages were mis-sent, delayed 
and sometimes never received; that "l-'all 
River, the name of the village in said 'I'own 
of Troy where most of the business is trans- 
acted & where most of the inhabitants re- 
side. Is better known & imderstood abroad 
than the name of Troy" and that It would 
be a gre.at ncconiniod.il Ion to have the 
change made. 



The matter was supported by the select- 
men's petition in accordance with a vote 
passed in town meeting March 1>, 1833. The 
l.«gislature referred it to the next General 
Court. It was taken up at that session and 
became an act February 12, 1S34. 

If the statement of the Freetown repre- 
sentative when he protested against the di- 
vision of the town, that the petitioners had 
two-fifths of the population, is accepted, the 
nunilier of inhabitants in Fall River at its 
incorporation was about 1,000. This is 
probably not far from the truth, for the cen- 
sus of 1810 gave a population of but 1,29G. 
The village of Fall River, near the center 
of the present city, numbered, in 1803, but 
about 100, according to a historian of GO years 
ago, who included in this estimate a number 
of residents living in Tiverton, on the south 
.side of the Quequechan. Nine of the eigh- 
teen families in the hamlet were Bordens. 
The others were the Braytons, Cooks, Da- 
vols, Luthers, Buflintons and Bowens, all 
n.inies si ill prominent in the city. 

.\ small cotton miill, the first in this vi- 
cinity, had been erected in 1811 at Globe 
Village, then a part of Tiverton, and two 
years later two myills were erected on the 
Quequechan, the Troy Cotton & Woolen 
.Manufactory and the Fall River Manufac- 
tory, in which power weaving was intro- 
duced in 1817. The postofflce had been es- 
tablished at the village of Fall River in ISll. 
removed to Steep Brook for a brief interval 
and then brought back. The census of 1S20 
showed that the population had increased 
since 1810 to 1,594. 

The next decade saw a very decided step 
forward. The Pocasset Mills and the Iron 
Works were established in 1821, Robeson's 
print works, the Massasoit Mill and a sarmel 
factory all about 1824, the Anawan Mill and 
the Fall River Bank in 1825, the line of 
steamboats to Providence in 1827. an>', the 
Fall River Savings Bank in 1828. The 
"Monitor" newspaper had begun publication 
in 182(>. and in 1830 the predecessor of the 
National Union Bank had established Itself 
Just over the line -in Tiverton. The census 
of 183(1 showed that the population as the 
result of the town's prosperity had much 
more than doubled, rising from l,5iM to 
4,159. Stage lines to Providence, Newiwrt 
and New Bedford had been established In 
1825. 

In the following ten years the American 
Print Works were established, existing 
liKinls crilargcd and the population Increased 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



23 



more gradually to 6,738 in 184u. Then came 
the disastrous fire of 1843, the building of 
the railroad, the establishment of a line of 
uoats to New York, the erection of the 
Wyoming Mills in 1S45, the Metacomet in 
1S47 and the American Linen in 1852. 
Various newspapers sprang up, but the only 
one that was to last was the "Weekly 
News," the publication of which had begun 
April 3, 1845. The banking facilities were 
increased by the Massasoit Bank in 1840, 
the Citizens' Savings in 1851, the Metacomet 
in 1852 and the Pocasset in 1854. The popu- 
lation advanced slowly to 11,170 in 1850, and 
about 12.000 in 1854. when the town was in- 
corporated as a city. 

As late as 1822 the town's paupers were 
sold by auction to persons who would offer 
to keep them for the least compensation, 
but this practice was discontinued a few 
years later, and in 1S"5 the Brnwnell farm 





1 


ij. 




/ 


*5fl^^-^ 




^ 


iiMm- 


A^m^ 




^^H 


^ 


n 




IP 







Old Church House, corner June .inj French Streets 

was puiichased as a poor farm. The nonh 
burial ground was l)Ought in 1825, and a 
town house erected on a part of the land the 
same year, to take the place of a building 
constructed at Steep Brook in 1S05. The 
new house was removed to its present loca- 
tion on the corner of Central and Durfee 
streets in 183G. Cells were placed umder it 
the next year and the building used till the 
present city hall was ready for occupancy. 

A beginning in a fire department was made 
in 1S26 by the appointment of ten fire wards. 
.\n engine was purchased and a house erect- 
ed in 182'.», and a second engine in 1845. A 
night watch of jjolice was begun in 1844, 
and a hospital established in 1851. Pocas- 
set, Pleasant and Anawan (formerly Broad) 
streets were opened in 1831, and Cherry, 



Spring, Wasnington and Union the following 
year. Gas was introduced in 1847. 

I'nvate conveyance was the only means 
ot comiuunication with neighboring places 
till the establishment in 1825 of stage lines 
to Providence, New Bedford and Newport, 
wnicn arrived ntre at noon and left at 1 

clock. The steamer Hancock began regu- 
lar trips to Proviaence in September, 1828. 
and was followed by the King Phi'ip in 
1832, the Bradford Uurlee in 1845 and the 
Canonicus in 1849. Other small boats made 
occasional trips. Communication with New 
York was by sailing packtts till 1847, when 
the Bay State Steamboat Company was 
tornied, with a capital of l(30U.iiOO, and the 
Bay Slate commenced regular trips, with the 
-Vlassachusetts as an alternate boat. 'I'he 
liJmpire State was put on the line the fol- 
lowing year and the Metropolis in 1854. 

Both the New York and Providence lines 
had been established largely through the 

1 ff orts of Col. Richard and Jefferson Borden, 
,)f the Iron Works Company, and they with 
.\. B. Borden were al.5o instrumental in 
building a railroad to Myricks in i84() to 
connect with the New Bedford and Taunlon 
read and over the tracks of the Providence 
road to Boston. The first terminus here was 
just south of the Central stree't tunnel, and 
after about a year was removed to the wharf 
on the starting of the New York line. 

The early mills were but small affairs, the 
Fall River Manufactory of 1,50(1 spindles and 
the Troy 2,000. At first little was done in 
the factories but the spinnin:.; of the yarn. 
The cotton was picke.l by hand in the homes 
at four cents a poun.l, spun in the mills and 
then woven by the housewives in their dwell- 
ings till the introduction of power looms 
about 1817. The cloth was coarser than the 
regular G4 square prints of to-day, being but 
44x44, and made of yarn running from No. 
20 to 25. Wages were low. in accordance 
with the cost of living, and the hours long. 
A mill superintendent in 1830 had $2 a day. 
ordinary hands 83 cents to $1 and overseers 
$1.25. Work began at 5. or as soon as light, 
with 30 minutes for breakfast at 8 o'clock, 
and the same for dinner at noon. The day 
ended about 7:30 p. m. New England rum 
was served to the men at 11 each morning 
till 1827. Only Americans were employed 
at first, then English and Scotch, who came 
on the establishing of the print works, and 
Irish after 1843. 

Calico printing was begun here In R<^bo- 
son's print works. In 1S2G, in buildings on 



24 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Pocasset street now owned by William J. 
Dunn. The plant was a large one for ils 
day and gave employment to many hands. 
A i)rinting machine, possibly the first in the 
coimtry, was set up here in 1S27, but block 
printing was continued until 1847, when, 
following a strike, it gave way to machine 
work. The owner, Andrew Robeson, of New 
Hedford, with whom his sons, Walliani It. 
and Andrew, Jr., wore associated after a 
time, was forced to make an assignment l)y 
the depression of 1S48, and the business was 
carried on by a corporation known as the 
Pall River Print Works, until about 1S60, 
when the printing machines were taken out 
and cotton machinery substituted. Mr. 
Robeson resided in New Bedford ami drove 
to this city each day. He is remembered 



ator; Orin Fowler, pastor of the First Con- 
gregational Church, and member ot Con- 
gress; Nathaniel B. Borden, also a memCier 
of Congress and active in many enterprises; 
Simeon Borden, engineer, Harvey Chace, 
manufacturer, and Edmund Chace, tanner. 

The Exchange Hotel on Rock street, now 
known as the Gunn estate, was long the 
principal hostelry here after 1830. It had 
been erected in 1827 as the private residence 
of John C. Borden, and was surrounded by 
his grounds, running from Bedford to 
Franklin street and west nearly to North 
Main. It was a remarkable structure in its 
day, with fifty-five rooms, handcarveil man- 
tles and window ca.sings with floors, ceilings 
and doors of hard pine and walls decorated 
by landscape artists. At the death of Mr. 




M.iin Street in 1838 



with especial gratitude by some aged men 
still living, who were formerly in his employ, 
and who benefitled by a school he eslab- 
lished for them in connection with the works. 
Among other men prominent in the leader- 
ship of affairs here was David Anthony, the 
first agent of the Fall River Manufactory 
and for forty years president of the l-^ll 
River Bank; Oliver Chace, the originator 
and first agent of the Troy Mill; Bradford 
Durfee, of the Pocasset Mill; Richard and 
Jefferson Borden, of the Iron Works, print 
works, railroad and steamboat lines; Ste- 
phen and William C. Davol, Dr. Nath.iu 
Durfee, .Micah Ruggles Dr. Foster Hooper; 
.lames Ford. Kllab Williams, Ixiuis Lapliaiii 
and Hezeklah Bat telle, lawyers; Phineas W. 
Lelaud, collector of customs and Slate Sen- 



Borden in 1833 it was converte*! into a h&tel, 
(■on<liiete<l by James Valentine, then by John 
D. Thornton and later by a stock company 
composed of Joshua Remington, Irani Smith, 
Samuel Hamlet and Horatio N. Gunn, who 
carrie<l it on for a decade or more. Mr. 
Gunn's partners died, and he having se- 
cured control, closed it to the public, .and 
used it as his private residence. It is still 
owned and occupied by his daughters. Tlie 
stone stable opposite, use<i by KIrby for 
many years, and torn down in 1904, was 
originally the private stable of Mr. Borden, 
and latej- as the hotel stable was the liead- 
quarters of the various stages. 

The Avery ca.se, as it is still called by the 
older Inhabitants, occurred in 1832 and made 
a great sensation at the time. Rev. Ephralm 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



25 



K. Avery, a Methodist minister of Bristol, 
was charged with the murder of Sarah 
Maria Cornell, a factory girl, who had been 
found strangled to death by a cord on a 
part of the John Durfee farm, now the north- 
east corner of the South park, December 
31, 1832. Avery was tried at Newport the 
following year, when a total of 2S9 witnesses 
were called and the jury, after being out 
seventeen hours, returned a verdict of not 
guilty. 

The great fire of 1843 occurred on Sunday, 
July 2, and was an almost appalling calam- 
ity for the little town, from which it recover- 
ed with rapidity, however. It started about 
4 o'clock in the afternoon among shavings 
in the rear of a large three-story warehouse 



gines and bucket brigades. The total num- 
ber of buildings destroyed, which included 
the Old Bridge mill and the Methodist and 
Christian churches, was 19G, and the num- 
ber of persons residing within the burned 
district 1,334. The loss was $.520,48.5. on 
which there was $175,475 insurance. 

A local relief committee was at once ap- 
pointed and an appeal for help sent ito other 
communities, which resulted in the receipt 
of $50,934. Of this amount $13,1G5 came 
from Boston, $1,7(10 from Providence and 
the same from New Bedford. 

In this fire was de.stroyed the famous 
skeleton in armour, commemorated by Ijong- 
fellow in his poem of that title. The skele- 
ton had been foimd in 1832 in a sand or 






^^~^$^^1.^^'' FSP 



'H^^^^ 




Fire of July, 1843 



at the corner of South Main and Borden 
streets, ignited by the firing of a small can- 
non by boys. A high southwest wind was 
blowing an<l so fanned the flames and car- 
ried the sparks thait the buildings on both 
sides of Main street, the business center, 
were soon burning. The whole space be- 
tween Main, Franklin, Rock and Borden 
streets was burned over, about twenty acres, 
and nearly all the village would probably 
have been destroyed had not the wind 
changed to the north, driving the flames 
back over the burned district. No rain 
had fallen for weeks, so that the builddngs 
were very dry, the water in the stream had 
been shut off to allow repairs, and there was 
no fire-fighting apparatus except hand en- 



gravel bank near Hart well and Fifth streets, 
near the surface, and buried in a sitting pos- 
ture. It was quite perfect and had a tri- 
angular plate of brass covering the sternum, 
while around the waist was a belt of brass 
tubes four or five inches In length, about the 
size of a pipe-stem, placed parallel and close 
together. Arrowheads were also found in 
the grave. Various theories as to the iden- 
tity of the skeleton were advanced, but the 
configuration of the skull, the position in 
which it was found and the fact that parts 
of other skeletons were found near by, make 
it probable that these were the bones of an 
Indian, possibly Massasoit himself. 

The Clough murder case of 1852 was at- 
tended by sensational features that have kept 



2b 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



it fresh in the memories of the older citizens. 
A number of houses on Roclt street including 
those of Israel Buffinton, Artemas Willard, 
Samuel Brown, Blijah Almy and Rev. A. P. 
Mason were entererl earl}' on the morning of 
July IG, 1852, by a burglar, who also at- 
tempted to 'break into other homes. He was 
seen and followed by two young men, and 
some time later pointed out to Gideon Man- 
chester, a former constable, who entered into 
conversation with him and accompanied him 
down Pine street toward the shore. Near the 
corner of Elm and Central the burglar, who 
afterward proved to be .Tames Clough. start- 
ed to run northward on Elm street. Man- 
chester pursued and Clou.ch, seein.s? that the 
other was gaining on him, turned and fire:l, 
inflicting wounds which caused Mauchcs- 



do/.en or more were sent out. The wharf was 
the "oil wharf," so-called, on Davol street, 
north of J. A. Bowen's, where the vessels fit- 
ted for their cruises and unloaded their car- 
goes. The business was profitable, but was 
generally atendoned here on the discovery of 
gold in California, when the vessels were 
used to carry passengers to' the Pacific 
Coast. 

One of the most interesting stories in 
connection with the industry here, probably 
the most interesting, in fact — is that of the 
wreck of the ship Holder Borden, owned 
here, which sailed from this port in Novem- 
ber, 1S42, for the Pacific Ocean for oil, with 
.labez Pell, master. All went well until April 
12, 1S44, when the vessel was wrecked on 
an uncharted island, afterward called Pell's 




^fe'j^' 



Tho Old Ex 



Stcamtx>.it.<; Br.idford Durfcc .ind Cinonicus 



ter's death three days later. Clough then 
took refuge under a barn at the corner of 
Pine and Durfee streets, from which he was 
captured, identified and placed in a cell. 
While there he nearly escaped, and when dis- 
covered had opened his cell door and put on 
clothes belonging to one of his guards. He 
was afterwards tried, convicted and executed 
at Taunton. Manchester's ftmeral was held 
in the Town Hall, with services conducted by 
the Bii|>tisl, Congregational 1st, Methodist and 
Presbyterian ministers, and was attended 1)y 
"a vast crowd." Manchester left a widow and 
five small children, for whom a fund of 
.$1, ()()() was raised by popular subscription. 

In the period between ISKI and 1S50 a con- 
siderable amount of whaling was done by 
vessels from this port, and at times n half 



Island, in the Pacific, and went to the bo.- 
tom with l,(iOO barrels of oil. The crew got 
ashore on the island — a small, uninhabited, 
sandy idace, and with dilliculty succeedv<l in 
saving a large quantity of the provisions and 
oil. With the lumber of the vessel which 
they were able to save and with the aid of 
some tools which they had recovered, as well 
as others which they ha<l manufactured, in- 
cluding a saw made from a l>arrel hoop, they 
constructed a new schooner, which they 
called the Hope, and launched with great 
difficulty, on account of the sandy shore, on 
September 14. She was 45 feet in length on 
deck, i;{ feel beam aiul hail a <lraught of 
three feet. Though heavily ballasted she fell 
over twice, but was finally rigged. Captain 



HISTORY OK FALL RIVER 



27 



Pell then took 25 of the crew, leaving the 
others on the shore with the oil, and sailed 
for Honolulu, where he sold the Hope for 
|1,400, bousht a new vessel named the Dela- 
ware in the name of Captain Nathan Uurfee, 
of this city, returned to the islanil and took 
on board the remainder of hip crew, and 



what was left of the oil, which had leaked 
badly through the neglect of the men who 
had been left with it. He then sailed for 
home, arriving here July 8. 1845. The 
ownership of the oil brought home was later 
determined by the courts, following claims 
for salvage. 




OH City Hill 



CHAPTER V 



INCORPORATED A CITY 



The First Government. The Civil War and the Period ot Rapid Growth to J880 



Fall River became a city, the eleventh in 
the Cooimoiiwealth, in 1854, when its popula- 
tion of 12,000 had grown too large for the old 
town system of government. This was the 
oulgrowth of a town meeting held January 
28, 1854, "to see what action, if any, the 
town will take in relation to obtaining a city 
charter." Chester W. Greene was moderator, 
and on motion of Josiah C. Blaisdell, amend- 
ed by Richmond Davol, a committee was ap- 
liointed consisting of John Westall, Foster 
Hooper, Nathaniel B. Borden, Israel Buffln- 
ton, Kliab Williams, Samuel L. Thaxter and 
l^)uis Lapham, to prepare a charter to bo 
reported at an adjourned meeting and peti- 
tion the Legislature, on behalf of the citi- 
zens, for its pas.sage. On motion of Dr. Rob- 
ert T. Davis the committee was instructed to 
report in print. 

Dr. Hooper was chairman of the commiit- 
tee, and at the adjournetl meeting, four 
weeks later, its report, with a few amend- 
ments, was accepted. The charter, under the 
title "An act establishing the City of Fall 
River" passed the Legislature without opposi- 
tion and was approved by the Governor April 
12, 1S54. It was accepted at a town meeting 
April 22 by a vote of 529 to 247, and with 
few changes was the instrument under which 
the city was governed till the adoption of a 
new charter in 1902. 

The first city election was held May 6, 
1S54, and resultetl in the selection of James 
Bufllnton as Mayor by 79(! votes, to 387 for 
Foster Hooper, G4 for Nathan Durfee and 14 
scattering. A City Council of six Aldermen 
and IS Councilmen was al.so clecte<l. with 
James Henry, Kdward P. Bufflnlon, Oliver H. 
Hathaway, Alvin S. Ballard. Edwin P. Shaw 
and Julius P. Champney the first members of 
the upper Board. The new government was 
inaugurated at the City Hall May 15, with 
prayer, followed by the administering of the 
oath to the new officers and an address by 



Chester W. Greene, chairman of the select- 
men, aft-er which Mayor Buflinton delivered 
his inaugural address. The Mayor's salary 
was $500 a year, and each Alderman re- 
ceived |50. 

Mayor James Bufflnton served two full 
years, and was succceeded late in 1856 by 
Edward P. Bufflnton, who had been appoint- 
ed to fill out a vacancy caused by the 
.Ma.vor's election to Congress; in 1857 by 
Nathaniel B. Borden; in 1858 and 1859 by 
Josiah C. Blaisdell, and in 18G0 again by 
Edward 1'. Bufflnton, who remaiineU in office 
fill 18G7. 

During the summer of 1854 this city, as 
well as many others throughout the country, 
suffered from the cholera. Though it did not 
reach here till the latter part of August, 
there had been two isolated cases prior to 
the general outbreak, but it was not till 
Thursda.v, August 24, that other cases re- 
sulted, .leremiah Holland died of the disease 
on that day, and in spite of the advice of 
Father Murphy to the contrary, a "wake" was 
held in the evening. On Saturday a number 
of those who had attended were taken ill. 
and by Sunday eventing 15 had died, not one 
of whom had survived the attack 24 hours. 
A wedding was another source of contagion 
and by Wednesday night tliere had been 30 
deaths, mostly among the Irish. The follow- 
ing week there were 32 more, including three 
Americans, and before the disease was 
stamped out early in October a total of al)out 
130 persons had succumbed, including the 
wife and daughter of Hon. N. B. Borden. 

In 1855 the city acquired 47 acres of land 
as the beginning of Oak Grove Cemetery, giv- 
ing In part exchange 32 acres in the "hdll" 
section, extending from Main street east to 
the Highland road, on both sides of Lincoln 
avenue, which had been Iwiight by the town 
for park purposes in 1853. The sale of the 
land wtus in accordance with a recoimnenda- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



29 



tion of Jlayor Bufflnton, who had said in his 
inaugural that it was not what the citizens 
desired for a parli. The tract was disposed 
of at cost — $15,000 — and the cemetery land 
acquired at ?200 an acre. 

The widespread financial stringency of 
1S57 made itself greatly fell here. Nearly 
all the mills were stopped and the men and 
women thus thixjwn out of work were forced 
to endure severe privations. On recommen- 
dation of Mayor N. B. Borden the city in- 
augurated additional public works, at a 
cost of $9,475.80, on the poor farm, cemetery 
and hig'hways, mainly to give employment to 
the poor, at 10 cents an, hour, and the com- 
munity was divided into diistricts to be under 
the care of committees of the citizens, a plan 
which worked well in relieving distress. To- 
ward the end of the year conditions Im- 
proved, and the hard times soon became lit- 
tle more than a memory. 

About this time some of the inhabitants 
became dissatisfied with the form of govern- 
ment, and a petition signed by 50 influential 
citizens vi'as presented to the authorities in 
.January, 1S5S, asking that the charter be 
surrendered. A meeting to consider the prop- 
osition was held, with an attendance of about 
400, but on the taking of a vote it was shown 
that the majority in favor of continuing 
under the city form of government was 
about two to one, and the matter was 
dropped. Two years later, in ISGO, the date 
of the annual municipal election was changed 
from the first Monday in March, the time 
set in the charter, to the first Monday in De- 
cember, and the municipal year was also 
modified so that it began the first Monday 
in January, as at present, instead of the first 
Monday in April. Th» date of the election 
was later changed to the Tuesday after the 
first Monday in December. The year 1860 
also saw the establishment of the public li- 
brary. 

The period just prior to the war was no- 
table for the erection of the Union mill, in 
1N59, largely through the efforts of Hale Rem- 
ington and David Anthony. This was the 
first corporation for the manufacture of cot- 
ton to be formed here, by men not closely 
allied with the older companies, like the Pall 
River Iron Works, the Manufactory and the 
Troy, and its success led to the starting of 
numerous new mills within a few years and 
the rapid growth in the importance of the 
city. The Granite followed, in 18G3: the 
Robeson, Tecumseh, Merchants and Durfee 
in 18GG; the Davol in 1867; the Mechanics 



in 18G8, and many others within the next 
decade, including the King Philip, the first 
fine goods mill, in 1871. 

The steam reulroad was extended to New- 
port in 1SG3. The first train ran through to 
Stone Bridge on November 15, and on the 
2Gth the first trip was made to Newport. In 
the same year the r^ili-oad from Warren to 
South Somerset, where it connected with a 
ferryboat which crossed to this city, was 
begun, but owing to the scarcity of labor, the 
high cost of materials and a severe winter, 
the first train was not run until May 22, 18G5. 
Surveys for a road to Providence had been 
made as early as 1835, but aibandoned. A 
charter was secured prior to 1850, but al- 
lowed to lapse. 

In March, 18G2, the boundary question, the 
subject of controversy for almost two hun- 
dred years, was finally settled by the action 
of the United States Supreme Court. The 
early history of the matter, including the lay- 
ing out in 174G of the line that crossed South 
Main street between Spring and Columbia 
and the attempt in 1791 to settle the disa- 
greement between Massachusetts and Rhode 
Island, has already been traced. Following 
the effort made in the last-named year no 
action was taken, though the matter was 
almost constantly agitated, until 1844, when 
six commissioners, three from each State, 
were appointed, whose report was presented 
to the Legislature in 1S4S. Meantime, the 
town had in 1847 appointed a committee con- 
siisting of Orin Fowler, P. W. Leland and 
Foster Hooper, to present the town's side of 
the matter to the Legislature. It was argued 
that the line should have been started from 
a point 440 rods south of the Quequechan, 
measured in a straight line rather than 
around coves, as had formerly been done, 
and further, that the need of an undivided 
jurisdiction over the thickly settled part of 
the conimunity was urgent. The Legislature 
refused to ratify the report, and in 1852 the 
States filed bills in equity in the Supreme 
Court. An act of Congress was secured, pro- 
viding for the establishment of a conven- 
tional line between the States, and in IRGO 
the Supreme Court appointed engineers (o 
mark a described line. This line was estab- 
lished by the Court the following year, to go 
into effect in March, 1862. The State 
line was moved to its present location, and 
about two eqiiare miles were taken from 
Tiverton and added to Westport. In return 
the State of Massachusetts ceded to Rhode 



30 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Island Pawtucket and that part of Seekonk 
now known as East Providence. 

The new boundary brought into the city of 
Fall Hiver the town of Fall River, K. L, of 
about nine square miles, with a population of 
3,593 and taxable property of ?1,948,37S. That 
town had been set apart from Tiverton at 
the request of its inhabitants, who could 
easily outvote the other sections of Tiverton, 
by the Rhode Island General Assembly, Oc- 
tober G, 385G. The benefit of the annexation 
to the city was immediate and important, 
and the remarkable development of the sec- 
tion since 1S70 has shown the wisdom of 
those who brought about its addition to the 
city and the debt the municipality owes to 



started from Twelfth street and continued 
into Westport to near the dwelling house of 
Charles H. Macomber, with a toll-house in 
Fall River near Quarry street. It was made 
a public thoroughfare by the County Com- 
missioners in 1SG5, on the payment of $7,UO0 
to the owners. Of this sum $1,333.33 was paid 
by the city by order of the Aldermen Novem- 
ber 30, 1SG5, and $1,000 by Westix>rt. The 
turnpike had been built in 1S27 at a cost 
about equal to what the county paid, by the 
Fall Rivtr and Watuppa Turnpike Corpora- 
tion, and paid well till the opening of the 
railroad. N. B. Borden was pi-esident and 
.lames Ford secretary, from 1.S21J until it was 
made public. 




T!lc Old ButtonwooJ Tr. 



Ihein. The old butlonwood trte on South 
.Main street that long marUe.l the boundary, 
and on which Avery was hung in elligy, was 
cut down by the city April H, 189C. 

The change In the boundary also brought 
into the city two turnpikes, which were soon 
iitun- made public. One of these was the 
WalupiKi Tnrti|ill<t'. owned by a slock coni- 
|)any, now known as Pleasant street. It 



Another toll road ran from the corner of 
Chace and Bay streets, where the Hrst toll 
house was located, nearly to Stone Bridge. 
It was discontinued on the building of the 
steam railroad to Newport, and by vote of 
the Aldermen March 2. 1SG3, so much of it as 
lay within the limits of the city was made a 
|)ul)lic highway "so long as for public travel 
its free use Is allowed." 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



3t 



The news of the firing on Fort Sumter, 
April 12, 18G1, was quickly followed by the 
issuing of a call for a public meeting of citi- 
zens, which was held in the City Hall on 
April 19, with a large and enthusiastic at- 
tendance. Hon. N. B. Borden, who read the 
call, was elecsted chairman and made the 
opening address, followed by Daniel Anthony, 
James Buffinton, Drs. Foster Hooper and 
Robert T. Davis, John Westall. Walter C. 
Durfee and others. Resolutions offered by 
Dr. Hooper were adopted, declaring that "the 
government of the Union shall be sustained" 
and requesting the City Council to appropri- 
ate $10,000 for the aid of volunteers and their 
lamilies. Five days later the Council made 
the appropriation requested, providing that 
$15 for an outfit should be paid to each vol- 
unteer and $15 a month for not more than 
three months for the support of his dei)end- 
ents. 

Enlistments were meantime going on. and 
application was made to Governor Andrew, 
the third in the Commonwealth, for permis- 
sion to form military companies. The first 
two were Companies A and B of the 
Tfih Massachusetts, wTiich were mustered in 
June 11. A third company was formed, but 
it was decided not to muster it in at that 
time, and it was disbanded. The first Fall 
River soldier to fall was Nathaniel S. Gerry, 
a private in Company A; the first commis- 
sioned officer, Liieutenant Jesse D. Bullock, 
of the same regiment, from wounds received 
at Pair Oaks. 

When the President called for 300,000 
more men, in 1862, another public meeting 
was held, July 11, at which a bounty of $100 
for three years' enlistment was recom- 
mended, and at a meeting August 14, lSfi2, 
it was resolved that "the patriotism of Mas- 
sachusetts will sustain the government in 
putting down the rebellion at any cost of 
men and money." It was voted to raise 
money by subscription to add $100 to each 
soldier's bounty and to assist Rev. Elihu 
Grant in raising a company. September 1. 
18C2, the city government voted a bounty of 
$200 for each volunteer for nine months' ser- 
vice. Rev. Mr. Grant, who was pastor of the 
Brayton M E. Church, had formerly l)een a 
student at West Point, and had little diffi- 
culty in setting the men to form Company 
C, of the Third Regiment, of which he was 
elected Captain. Andrew R. Wright was 
captain of Company D. also raised here at 
this time, and to these officers swords were 
presented at a meeting in Oity Hall Septem- 



ber 9, 18G2, to Mr. Grant by Rev. Thomas 
Holmes, and to Mr. Wright by Rev. Charles 
A. Snow, afterward chaplain of the regiment. 

The two companies were escorted to the 
train by many citizens, and, as usual, there 
were tearful eyes and hasty farewells on 
the part of those letL behind, but the men 
went away cheerfully and gladly. On their 
return June 17, 18G3, they were greeted by a 
big crowd and escorted by (he city govern- 
ment and fire department through decorated 
streets to the City Hall, where a formal wel- 
come was given, followed by a collation. 

The draft was several times delayed, but 
finally took place in New Bedford July 22, 
1SG3, when 1,404 names of Fall River citizens 
were placed in a box and 405 drawn, of which 
.John Sullivan was the first. The men drawn 
included both members of one firm here, 
Shaw & Hoag, painters, on Second street; 
three members of the Baptist Temple choir, 
two stewards and two class leaders of the 
First Methodist Church, and one lawyer, 
Simeon Borden. Holder B. Durfee, a son of 
Dr. Nathan Durfee, then a student at Yale, 
and William H. H. Borden, a son of Colonel 
Richard Borden, were also drawn, and 2'2 of 
the 2G men enrolled from Steep Brook. The 
names for this city were drawn first, by re- 
que.st, and were brought here by John C. 
Milne and Rev. Charles A. Snow in a car- 
riage and rushed into print as promptly as 
possible to relieve the anxiety of the crowd 
that surrounded the newspaper office. Sub- 
stitutes were furnished in many cases, se- 
cured at varying prices — $S00 in one in- 
stance. 

A second draft occurred on May 19. 1SG1. 
when 82 men were drawn. It was followed 
by three supplementary drafts — on June 13. 
July G and July 27. when G3. 21 and 20 names 
were drawn. 

The return of Company G. oSth Massaciui 
setts, under Captain Brady, on furlough, 
April 5, 1804. was celebrated by a par.ade of 
the fire companies and militia, with the city 
government and a brass band. The bells 
were rung, buildings decorated and formal 
exercises held in the City Hall, followed by 
a dinner Companies A and B. of the 
Seventh Regiment, on their return June 20 
with 58 men. were also honored with a 
parade, decoration of buildings and a clam 
bake. 

The news of the fall of Richmond was 
greeted by the ringing of bells, and on Lee's 
surrender there was more hell ringing, in- 
cluding that of the Central Church by two 



32 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



young women; the firing of cannon, the 
parade of the Light Inlauiry, which had re- 
turned from a brief period of d'lty; ihc 
dismissing of the schools and the general 
suspension of work. In the evening a meet- 
ing was held in City Hall, presided over by 
the Mayor, at which addresses were made 
and "America," "John Brown's Body" and 
"Old Hundred" were sung. 

The assassination of Lincoln became 
known generally through the tolling of the 
City Hall bell, a; was learned v.ilb un- 
speakable sorrow and indignation. While the 
crowd was gathered about the bulletin "a 
notorious copperhead, secesh sympathizer 
. . . " was heard to say that it v.as the 
best news he had heard in many years, lie 
was at cnce set upon by the bystanders and 
kicked and punched till he procured a flag, 
unfurled and saluted it. The Mayor and City 
.Marshal then came up and assisted him to 
his store at 5 Bedford street, where he locked 
himself in, but as the crowd continued to 
gather and show signs of hostility, he was 
glad to escape by a rear window and take 
refuge in the strongest cell in the lockup. 
The crowd broke the windows in his store 
and demolished things generally, after which 
they requested several persons who had not 
displayed the colors to do so. Tlieir request 
was promptly complied with. 

The city furnished a total of 1,770 men 
for the United States forces during the war, 
comprising 497 for the navy, 17 regulars, 820 
three-year men, 207 nine-months men, 192 
threc^months men and ^7 one-year men. 
These included Companies A and B of the 
Seventh Regiment, Company G of the 2(;ih, a 
large ponio-i of Companies F and (1 of the 
iiSth, in addition to men in many other regi- 
ments that enlisted lor three years. I; also 
sent out Companies C and D, of the Third 
Regiment, for nine months, and numbers for 
other regiments, while local men entered the 
regular army and regiments from other 
States. The city government appropriated 
on account of the war a total of $107,S2S.ii:!, 
and for aid to soldiers' families, which was 
repaid by the State, $127,510. 

Hon. E. P. Bulllnton, the Mayor during the 
period of war, and the other members of the 
city government, as well as Congressman 
.lames Bufflnton, the clergy and the 
private citizens, were untiring In their 
efforts to preserve the I'nion and to 
aid and encourage the soldiers. Con- 
gressman Bufflnton enlisteil - as a private 
in Company A, Seventh Regiment, at the be- 



ginning of the conflict and served till the 
opening of the fall term of Congress, when 
he resumed his seat at the demand of his 
constituents, and there was of great assist- 
ance 10 the soldiers from this district in 
camp, hospital and field. Among the clergy 
there was equal patriotism. Messrs. Grant 
and Snow went to the front, while Rev. Kli 
Thurston, Rev. P. B. Haughwout, Rev. Mr. 
Chapman, Dr. Adams and Rev. Kdward 
.Murphy, the latter of St. Mary's, preached 
loyalty to the Union and devotion to her 
cause, both in and out of the pulpit. The 
women formed a sewing society April 27, 
ISOl. which was continued till July, 1865, 
with Mrs. Richard Borden as president 
throughout, and which sent to the soldiers a 
large number of shirts, socks, blankets and 
other articles, in addition to jellies, news- 
papers, books, etc. A children's lint society 
was also kept up during the war. The sol- 
diers' monument in Oak Grove Cemetery, 
was the gift of Colonel Richard Borden, and 
bears the names of 163 of the fallen. 

The premium on gold during the war and 
the consequent hoarding of currency led to 
such a scarcity of small coins that, by 1SG2, 
a number of storekeepers issued due 
bills of 50, 25, 10 and 5 cents each, 
which were redeemed in current money when 
piesented in amounts of one or more dollars. 
At least two vessels owned in this port, the 
schooner Norman and the Irark Lenox, were 
captured by the Confederates. 

The first French-Canadian families to come 
here in any numbers arrivc<l soon after the 
close of the Civil War and found employment 
in the American Linen mills, near which they 
resided. All the industries of the city were 
then prosperous There was a demand for 
labor, and it was not long before the first 
arrivals sent for their i>arents and friends, 
and the French population grow rapidly. The 
i.ewcomers were unfamiliar with the work 
expected of them, and with the language and 
customs of this country, but they persisted, 
and sfK)n largely overcame these obstacles. 
The first French priest to come liere was Fr. 
A. J. Derbuel. who was a curate at St. Mary's 
Church in 1867-1868. There were then about 
100 French families in the city. Fr. Verdier 
came here )I'e next vear, and in ISO!), when 
the iiuml)er of families was about 600. The 
first FrotK-li parish, that of Stn. .\nnc. wa.s 
formo<l and erecteil a church !i. 1871. when 
the numl)er of French inhabitants had con- 
siderably increased, in consequence of the 
buildinj of mills in the eastern section, the 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



33 



parish o£ Ste. Anne was divided and that 
ot Notre Daii;c ie Loudres was founded by 
Fr. Pierre J. Bte. Bedard, who also founded 
the first Catholic orphanage. He was greatly 
beloved by those of his own nationality and 
hig'hly regarded by all. St. Mathieu's parish 
in the northern section of the city was 
founded December 3, 1887, and erected its 
church the following year. French Protes- 
tants also formed a church, the French Con- 
gregational, which erected an edifice on Har- 
rison street in ISSS. The French population 
had by 1S8S increased to 15,500, as reported 
by the three Catholic churches of that nation- 
ality — nearly one-fourth of the entire popula- 
tion of the city. To-day the total of French 
residents is pix)bably between 30,000 and 
35,000, constituting nearly a third of the 
city's inhabitants. 

George O. Fairbanks was Mayor in 3 SOT 
and 1868, succeeding Mayor Bufflnton, who 
had served during the civil war, and was fol- 
lowed in 1869 by Samuel M. Brown, who was 
to remain in office till 1872. During Mayor 
Fairbanks' administration the Morgan street 
school, now the N. B. Borden, the first of the 
large buildings for educa:tional purposes 
here, was erected, the South park purchased 
and Highland Road laid out and worked. 

In this period, 1SC7-T0, the city steadily 
advanced in iwpulation, wealth and amount 
of business done. The population in 1865 had 
been 17,525; in 1870 it had reached 27,191. 
The valuation in the meantime had grown 
from $12,134,990 to ?23,612,214,'and the num- 
ber of spindles in the chief industry had in- 
creased from 265,328 to 544,606. The dawn 
of 1870 saw a busy and thriving city, well 
equipped for the marvelous progress that 
was so soon to follow. 

The years of 1871 and 1872 are marked in 
red letters in the story of tlie city's growth, 
for they saw the beginning of the rapid 
building of mills that were to mean an im- 
mense step forward toward industrial 
eminence. The mills already in opera- 
tion had prospered exceedingly, confi- 
dence was strong, and Fall River boomed 
as lew other cities have done. In the 
period named fifteen new corporations 
were formed, and began the erection of large 
factories, eleven of which were built in a 
single year — 1872. Others followed, anrl 
the numiber of inhabitants which in 1871 had 
been 28,291, advanced to 34,835 in 1872, 38,- 
464 in 1S73, and 43,289 in 1874. From ttat 
time it grew less rapidly for a period, hut yet 
subsitantially, and in 1880 had reached 47,883. 



Meantime the city government had been 
busy with the providing of better highways, 
schools, sewers and fire protection for the 
growing community. Mayor Brown's inau- 
gurals in 1870 and 1871 had both urged the 
necessity of a public water works system, 
and in 1871 the first steps were taken to- 
ward its construction. This was carried on 
with energy, and in 1873 the works began 
operation, thus relieving a situation which 
had been growing most unsatisfactory. 
Mayor Brown also turned his attention to the 
widening of the streets, and North Main was 
widened from Prospect to Turner, South 
Main from William to Globe, Globe itself, 
and Pleasant from Third to Sixth. 

The water works were practically com- 
pleted in 1873, under the administration of 
Robert T. Davis, and the first water pumped 
through the pipes. A large amount of high- 
way work was carried on, including the 
widening and straightening of North Main, 
to avoid the grade, from Stewart street to 
Wilson road (1% miles), the widening of 
Pleasant from Sixth to the Narrows ordered, 
and completed as far as Quarry, and of South 
Main from Division street to the South Park. 
the laying out of Durfee avenue from Soutli 
Main to Broadway, Tucker street from South 
Main to Plymouth avenue, and the widening 
of Plymouth avenue at its junction with 
Pleasant and Twelfth streets. Columbia 
street was also widened, and the betterment 
law applied for the first time, though the 
assessments were refunded by a later ad- 
ministration. In all, 21 streets were either 
widened, laid out, or laid out and worked. An 
engineer was employed to prepare a sewer 
system, three auxiliary [jolice and Hrc! sta- 
tions were begun, and three large school 
buildings ordered, the Slade. Davis and 
Davenport, two of which were begun. The 
city adoi)ted the free schoolbook system, with 
free supplies, thus becoming the first in the 
Commonwealth to make its schools entirely 
without cost to the pupils. Dr. Davis retireil 
at the end of the year, as he had announced 
he would do upon consenting to take flie of- 
fice, and donated his salary to the Children's 
Home. 

James F. Davenport was Mayor from 1874- 
77. In this period the Slade's Ferry bridge 
was completed and opened (o highway travel, 
.lanuary 4, 1876: the New Bedford railroad 
was built ami the first passenger train run 
over it December 9, 1875. The Academy of 
Music was opened January 6, 1S7G, by Theo- 
dore Thomas and a concert company of 



34 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



sixty members. Meantime public works 
were pushed forward. Tile water worlvs sys- 
tem was now in operation, the three auxil- 
iary police and fire stations were occupied, 
in 1875, and the dei>artnient reorganized. 
Pleasant street was graded from Quarry to 
the Narrows, and the large Davenport 
school completed. The following year, ISTG, 
a total of |99,U45 was expended for the ex- 
tension of sewers, including that in Pleasant 
street, from Fourth to Ninth, and amounting 
in all to 4.38 miles. A new city hospital was 
also constructed. In 1877 nearly three miles 
of additional sewers were built at a cost of 
$00,054, including the extension of the Pleas- 
ant street main from Ninth to 'rwelfth. Fire 
insurance districts were established, ami an 
engine house on Plymouth avenue erected, 
partly from the proceeds of the sale of the 
Pleasant street house. 

Crawford E. Lindsey succeeded Mr. Dav- 
enport as Mayor, for two years, ISTS and 
1879, and under his guidance the important 
work of sewer and highway construction 
was pushed forward. Eighty thousand dol- 
lars was expended for highways in 1878, and 
$44,000 for sewers, sums larger than ex- 
pected, but made necessary to give employ- 
ment to men made idle by the stopping of 
the mills. The first steam road roller was 
purchased this year, and a Board of Health 
established by the acceptance of the State 
law, with B. F. Winslow, J. S. Anthony and 
C. W. Copeland the first members. In 1879 
$45,000 was expended on sewer extension, 
1.22 miles of streets worlsed and the city 
barn removed from the present central police 
station to Cherry street, allowing important 
improvements to be made in the former 
building. The post office building had been 
begun in 1S75. and was completed in .lune. 
1880. 

The decade from 1870 to 1880 was a nota- 
ble one for the city, not only for the great 
advance in manufacturing, wealth and popu- 
lation, the construction of the water works, 
the custom house, the New Bedford rail- 
ix)ad, tho Slade's Ferry bridge, the widening 
and improvement of streets, the erection of 
new public buildings for school, fire and po- 
lice purposes, and the real beginning of 
sewer work — matters in most instances de- 
scribed at lengfh elsewhere — but also for 
less favoring occurrences, the strikes of 1870, 
1875 — perhaps better known as "The Vaca- 
tion" — and 1879. There had also been the 
(lull llnH>s 4)eginnlng lale in 1S7:!. and what 
was far more disastrous for this community, 



the linancial irregularities that came to light 
in 1878 and 18'i9, and that caused scores ot 
banlu'uptcies and brought many residents 
who had been in prosperous circumstances 
down to straitened conditions. 

At least two of the local savings banks, the 
Union and the Fall River, were restrained 
from paying more than ten per cent on de- 
IK)sits v/itliiu six mouths, and suspended divi- 
dends lor a time, while their deposit books 
sold as low as 70 cents on a dollar. The 
credit of other manufacturing corporations 
suffered a severe blow from the general sus- 
picion that had been aroused. 

Some events of minor interest at this 
period recorded in a memorandum book kept 
by one of the old residents are worthy of 
note: September 8, 18(19, occurred a storm 
which blew down the Central Church spire, 
chimneys and trees, and drove several ves- 
sels ashore; November 24, 1873, the city 
clock was first illuminated; June 27, 1S74, 
steamer Richard Borden arrived here, and 
made an excursion to Block Island Ju'y 1 ; 
the beacon was first lighted October 1, 1881, 
on Borden Flats, "which there is no one in 
Fall River ever heard of that name previous 
to this light being built." Remarkably heavy 
rainfalls took place August 9, 1874, October 
15, 1S77, and February 12, 1886. 

The opening of the new Post Office Build- 
ing in 1S7G makes the insertion of a sketch 
of the local postal service at this time appro- 
priate : 

The first Po.st Office in this city was estab- 
lished in 1811. with Charles Pittman, iwst- 
master. Two years later the office was re- 
moved to Steep Brook, then of greater im- 
portance than the village of Fall River, but 
was re-established at Fall River in 181G. The 
office has been successively situated at the 
northeast corner of Main and Bedford 
streets, the City Hall, the corner of Pleasant 
and South Main, and the present Custom 
House building. The free delivery system 
was inaugurated July 1, 1863. The postmas- 
ters have been: Abraham 'Bowen, 1816-24; 
James G. Bowen, 1824-31; Benjamin An- 
thony, 18:51-36; Caleb B. Vickery. 1836-49; 
.lames Ford. 1849-53; James M. Morton, 1S5;;- 
57; Ehenezer Slocum, 1857-61; Edwin Shaw. 
1861-75; Chester W. Greene. 1875-81; William 
S. Greene, 1881-85; Nicholas Hatheway, 1S8.> 
89; .John Whitehead. 1889-94; Daniel D.Sul- 
livan, 1894-98; William S. Greene (appointed 
April 1. 1898, iMit soon resigned to lake his 
seal ill Congressi ; Gixjige .\. BiUlard. fSliS to 
the present time. 




. ^A^ ^l. 




¥ 







36 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



The Custom House located in the same 
building, was established here in 1S34, hav- 
ing been transferred from Dighton, which 
had been the port of entry for this district 
since the forming of the Federal government. 
Various rented rooms were used for offices 
until alKJUt IS'o, when the increased busi- 
ness of both the Custom House and Post Of- 
fice made better quarters imperative. Con- 
struction of the present building was begun 
in September, 1ST5, and in June, ISSO, it was 
sufficiently completed to allow the cuitom 
office to be moved to its new home. The 
Post Office was removed to the new building 
a few months later. The total cost was 
$518,000, of which $132,000 was for lami. 

In aggregate tonnage of vessels enrolled, 
Fall River is seventh among the ports on the 
Atlantic Coast, and is excelled only by New 
York, Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Perth 
Amboy and Bath. In steamers alone slie 
stands sixth, but falls behind in sailing ves- 
sels. This port, according to the last annual 
report of the Commissioner of Navigation, 
has 71 sailing vessels of 51,623 tons, 3G steam 
vessels of 33,147 tons, and five barges of 1,306 
tons, a total enrollment of 86,076 tons. The 
census of 1905 showed 1,417,533 tons of 
freight and 355,873 passengers carried during 
the last fiscal year. 

The collectoi-s of customs have been: P. 
W. Leland, 1834-42; Charles J. Holmes, 
1842-45; P. W. Leland, 1845-49; Samuel 



L. Thaxter, 1849-53; P. W. Lelaud, 1853- 
61; Charles Almy, 1861-65; James Brady, 
1865-95; John Desmond, 1S95-1900; James 
Brady, 1900 to the present time. 

Slade's Ferry bridge was opened to 
the public January 4, 1876, when John S. 
Bi-ayton and his son, John S. Bray- 
ton, Jr., were the first persons to drive 
across. It had been authorized by the Leg- 
islature May 2, 1872, and was begun October 
8, 1874. It was completed except for the 
approaches November 9, 1875, when it was 
tested by running 300 tons of stone upon it. 
It is 20 feet wide and 955 feet in length, and 
rests on six piers made of pneumatic tubes, 
built on a solid stratum 30 to 35 feet below 
the level of the water. During its construc- 
tion five men were killed by the bursting of 
the air chamber of an engine, December 4, 
1874. The trains began running regularly 
over it Monday, December G, 1875, the ferry- 
lioat Oriole having made her last trip the 
previous Saturday. The first electric car 
crossed 'the bridge September 4, 1897. The 
total cost of construction was $305,414.82, of 
which the county paid $41,361.20, the City of 
Fall River $26,000; Somerset $5,200; Swan- 
sea $3,200, and the Old Colony Railroad 
Company $229,083.62. The cost of main- 
tenance of the highway part of the structure 
was apportioned as follows: Fall River, 74 
percent; Somerset, 15; Swansea. 11. 




CHAPTER VI 



PROGRESS SINCE 1880 



Population More Than Doubles. Continued Mill Building. 
and New City Charter 



Public Improvements 



Since 18S0 the city has grown rapidly in 
wealth and population, more than doubling 
Ihe valuation in the quarter century, while 
the number of inhabitants has jumped from 
47,883 to 110,000, a gain of 130 per cent., with 
an average yearly increase of 2,400 souls. 
Mill building has gone on without serious in- 
terruption, and with a marked tendency 
toward plants for the manufacture of fine 
goods, while various other large industries 
ha.ve been started and flourished. Streets 
and sewers have been greatly improved, the 
schools have reached a much higher effi- 
ciency, a modern city charter has been 
adopted, the purity of the water supply pro- 
tected and the parks greatly improved. The 
City Hall has been burned and remodelled. 




FdU River Hospilil 

the Armory, Public l.ibrary. Court House, 
textile school and B. M. C. Durfee high 
school, as well as many modern grammar 
school buildings erected, and the grade cross- 
ings abolished. 

Semi-public institutions have flourished 
and the Cliildren's Home, the Boys' Club, the 
Y. M. C. A.. Ste. Anne's Hospital and the 
Home for the Aged have occupied new and 
commodious quarters. Numerous churches, 
hospitals, orphanages and business blocks, 
have been erected and combined to make 



(he present city a far better one than the 
Pall River of 18S0. 

William S. Gi-eene was the Mayor in 1880 
and 1881, but was appointed postmaster in 
the latter year, and Robert Henrj;_was elect 
ed to fill out his term. During Mayor 
Greene's first year in office, the first paving 
was laid — ^a small section at the corner of 
South Main and Pleasant streets; $61,500 
was expended on highways and the erection 
of the city stables begun. A draft of a new 
city charter, which had been urged for years, 
was made and forwarded to the I.«gislature, 
but opposition developed and the matter was 
dropped. The office of city engineer wa-s 
established, and Philip D. Borden, the pres- 
ent incuinibent, appointed Martfh 7, 1881, hav- 
ing been in the city's service since 1873. New 
school buildings were erected on Stafford 
Road and Locust streets in 1881, and nearly 
I wo miles of curbing laid. 

Henry K. Braley, now a member of the 
Supreme Court, was the head of the gov- 
ernment in 1882 and 1883. In his first year 
Rock street was opened from Prospect to 
French, South Main paved from Pleasant to 
.Morgan, and nearly a mile of sewers built, 
including one in Pleasant street from 
Twelfth to the Merchants mill. In his sec- 
ond term. 1883, electric street lighting was 
l)egun, street and sewer work continued, in- 
cluding the paving of North Main from Cen- 
tral to Ix>cust, and the North Park set aside 
for park purposes. 

Hon. Milton Reed, who was the city's Chief 
EJxecutive tbe following year, 1884, continued 
the paving of North Main from Ix)cust to 
Cedar, and Franklin from North Main to 
Winter. The number of electric lights was 
increased to 22. and three new schools, each 
of four rooms, erected on Covel and Brownell 
streets and Mount Hope avenue. 

John W. Cummings was elected Mayor in 
1885, succeeded by William S. Greene in 



38 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



188G and returned to the Major's chair in 
J8S7 and 188S. During this time City Hall 
was burned, with heavy loss, and recon- 
structed, Bedford street paved easterly from 
Alain, in ISSG; the first police matrons ap- 
pointed, in 18ST, and South Main street 
widened to UU feet, from Pocasset to Ana- 
wan. Large amounts were also expended on 
the extension of sewers, including $174,378 in 
]8S5 alone. James F. Jackson succeeded Mr. 
Cunimings in 1SS9 and 1890, and under nis 
administration the police signal system was 
established, Pleasant street paved from Sec- 
ond to Tenth; the Third street bridge con- 
structed; fl. Board of Overseers of the Poor 
established, and an inspector of plumbing ap- 
pointed. 

Meantime mill building had gone on and 
the city's population increased from 47,883 in 
1S70 to 74,918 in 1S90, while the valuation 
had advanced from $39,171,204 to $53,395,908. 
The street railroad had heen built and nu- 
merous new corpoi'ations formed, including 
the Barnaby, Bourne, Conanicut, Cornell, 
Margraves, Laurel Jjake, Seaconnet, Massa- 
soit. Globe Yarn and Kerr Thread. 

The first of the great mills of the Fall 
River Iron Works had been built in 1889, the 
Border City Manufacturing Company had 
built a third mill, the Richard Borden a sec- 
ond and the Wampanoag a large weave shed. 
The imposing high school building had been 
erected and dedicated to its noble purpose. 

Dr. John W. Coughlin became Mayor in 
1S91 and served four years. In his first term 
the fire district ordinance was amended; 
$1(in,000 expended on liighways. including 
large sums for macadamizing, $25,000 on pav- 
ing and $50,000 on sewers. The next year — 
1S92 — ^the highways received $141,927, Rod- 
man street was paved from South Main 
to Second, Davol and Pleasant from Four- 
teenth to Stafford Square. The police force 
was also largely increased. Further paving 
was done in Davol street in 1893, the Davol 
and Osl)orn schools completed and a num- 
litr of other .school buildings enlarged during 
his administration. The new city hospital 
was opened July 1, 1S94, and a city dispen- 
sary established on November 30. High- 
ways, paving and sewers continued to receive 
generous attenticrn. 

William S. Greene, who had already been 
thrice elected ma>ior, retui>ned for a fourth 
term in 1S95 and was In office till 1K9S. In 
his first year. 1895. the public library an<I 
the armory liiiildings were authorized, the 
placing of wires underground in the center 



of the city begun, and the sale of six street 
car tickets for 25 cents secured from the 
street railroad as a condition on which it was 
allowed to cross Slade's Ferry bridge. This 
period was also notable for the opening of 
Durfee from Pine to Central and of Bank 
from North Main to Green. Tlie Jiouses 
were renumbered, the Coughlin and William 
Connell schools built and a reservoir com- 
missiion established to protect the purity of 
the water supply. $140,000 was appropri- 
ated for highways, $25,000 for paving and 
$85,000 for sewers. In 1898 highways re- 
ceived $131,503. and sewers $171,500. The 
new police building on Granite street was 
occupied, allowing a renovation of the old 
Central station. In 1897 a main sewer wa« 
built in Globe street and seven miles of 
macadam constructed, including a long 
stretch on Highland avenue. Amos M. Jack- 
son, mayor in 1898 and 1899, and John H. 
Abbott in 1900 and 1901, pushed forward 
similar public works along all lines. They 
were particularly active in urging the 
greatly-needed abolition of the grade cross- 
ings, and their efforts were rewarded by 
the filing of the commissioner's report on 
January 1, 1902. The movement for this 
work had been started under the administra- 
tion of .Mayor (Jreene, who spared no pains 
in working for it. 

Meantime mill building had gone on 
steadily, and witli it the population had ad- 
vanced from 74.918 in 1890 to 89,203 in 189.-. 
and to 104.803 in 1900. In the same lime the 
valuation had increased from $53,395,908 in 
1890 to $(;5,2:?S,178 in 1895 and $73,511,014 
in 1900. Three more mills had been built by 
the Iron Works Co. in 1892, 1893 and 1S95. 
The Stevens Mfg. Co. had been organized 
in 1892. the Sanford Spinning in 1891. the 
Parker in 1894 and the Arkwright in 1897. 
and existing corporations had made large 
additions to their plants. The Granit j, Te- 
cumseh, Hargraves and Richard Borden had 
built new mills, and the King Philip. Chace. 
Shove, Seaconnet, Laurel Lake, Narragan- 
sett, Stafford. Hargraves and Barnard had 
either extended existing Imildings or ererte.l 
large weave .sheds. The end of the Cv>niury 
saw 3,042,472 spindles in operation here, 
nearly a million more than a decade before. 
The Algonquin Print Works had also cbeen 
successfully established and the hat making 
Industry, begun in a small way In 1SS7. had 
grown to largo diinen?ions. 

In spite of business depressions and labor 
troubles the number of inhabitants had in- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



39 



creased 20 per cent, during the decade, and 
in many other ways the oily had progressed. 
Electric street car service had been iii.stdll- 
ed, lines built to Taunton, New Bedford and 
Newport and three handsome public build- 
ings erected, the court house, library and 
armory. The Boys' Club and the Home For 
-Aged People had moved into new and coii- 
modious quarters and new churches and so- 
ciety buildings had rj.-;en in various section.?. 
On August 4. 1892, the city had been 
.shoclved by the news that Andrew .1. Borden, 
an aged and wealthy citizen, and his wife, 
had been found murdered during the fore- 
noon in their home on Second street near 
the center of the community. The promi- 
nence of the parties and the mystery that 
surrounded their death caused widespread 
aiarm, and subsequent developments made 
the case one of the most notable of its time 
and gave the city an undesired notoriety. 
The inquest was begun August 8, and three 
days later, Lizzie A. Borden, a daughter by 
a former w-ife, was arrested, charged with 
the murder. She was arraigned August 12 
and her case continued to Aug. 22, when it 
was again adjourned till the 25fch. The hear- 
ing was concluded Sept. 1, and the pnsontr 
remanded to Tauntor. jail to await the at 
lion of the grand jury. That body begar its 
investigation at Taunton, Nov. 15, and ad- 
journed six days later, without reporting, to 
Dec. 1, when it voted on the matter and on 
I lie following day returned three indict- 
ments against Lizzie A. Borden for murder. 
She was arraigned in New Bedford May 8, 
and the trial begun in that city on .June 5. 
It was concluded June 20, when the jury, 
after being out a little over an hour, returned 
a verdict of not guilty. District Attorney 
Knowlton and William H. Moody, now a 
member of the President's cabinet, conduct- 
ed the prosecution, and Ex-Gov. Robinson, 
Andrew J. Jennings and Arthur S. Phillips 
the defense. 

George Grime was mayor from 1902 to 
1904, inclusive, and under his administration 
marked improvements were made. iMost of 
the grade crossing work was accomplished 
duiing this period, a park commission estab- 
lished and the South and Ruggles parks 
greatly improved from the proceeds of spe- 
cial loans. Electric street car sprinkling 
was begun, In 1902, a franchise granted for 
the carrying of freight on the Dartmouth & 
Westport Street Railway and the city's in- 
terests cared for in numerous hearings on 
the proposed n w bril.sre across the Taunton 



river. Highway and sewer work was con- 
tinued and other public improvements car- 
ried forward. 

.\ most im)K)i-laiit change during this ad- 
ministration was tlie adoption of a new city 
charier in 1902 to take the place of the 1854 
charter, which while it had worked well for 
a community of 12,000, had long been out- 
grown. Between 1870 and 1900 a new 
charter had been repeatedly urged but with- 
out success, and the only changes had been 
by araendmemts of the original document. 
In 1901, however, a new charter along the 
lines of the present instrument, was drawn 
up by a committee of thirty citizens repre- 
senting various political parties, occupations 
and races, of which Simeon B. Chase was 
chairman and J. S. B. Clarke -sacretary. It 
was passed by the Legislature at its next 
session, with some amendmehts, approved 
May 13, 1902, and accei)ted by the votes of 
this city at the state election Nov. 4, 1902. 
by a vote of 6,S';.j to 3,G89. It went into 
effect at the beginning of the municipal year 
the following January with George Grime, 
who had already served one term, the first 
mayor under the new instrument. 

The most important change was tne 
alioli'Shing of the double form of govern- 
ment, v>;th aidcrmen and on:rmon coaacil, 
and the giving of their powers to a new 
board of 27 aldermen, three from each ward, 
two to be elected by the voters of the ward 
and one by all the voters of the city. The 
terms of the aldermen, like that of the 
mayor, were made two years instead of one, 
and provision was made for the election of 
a part of the board each year. The mayor 
was relieved from presiding at the meetings 
of the aldermen and was made strictly an 
executive officer, with control over the vari- 
ous city departments, exceiw the schools and 
police. A fire commission was established 
and practically all the city officials were to 
be nominated by the mayor and approved by 
the aldermen. The terms of office of 4he 
city clerk, auditor, treasurer, collector, super- 
intendent of buildings, engineer, solicitor, 
surveyor of highways and superintendent of 
streets were made two years each; of the 
fire commissioners and board of health, three 
years. 

The city suffered severely through the six 
months' textile strike against a reduction Jn 
wages which began July 25, 1904, and threw 
about 30,000 operatives into idleness. The 
loss of wages and consequent depression in 
trade here seriously affected the community. 



40 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



and the census of May, 1905, showed a de- 
crease, through removal, of 7,000 inhabitants 
during the year. The best of order was 
maintained tliroughout the struggle. Since 
the end of the difficulty steady employment 
has been offered, wages have been twice 
advanced, restoring the old scale, and many 
of those who left the city have returned, so 
livat a census today should siiow at least 
1 1), 1100 inhabitants. 

Four new mills have been built here since 
1900, the Davis, Stevens No. 2, and Iron 
Works Nos. 5 and 7, the latter replacing the 
old Anav.'an, while the No. G, the old Meta- 
comet, has been remodelled and enlarged 
and other plants have made considerable ad- 
ditions, and the Algonquin Printing Co. has 
irected the most important of the several 
buildings which compose its giant. The Y. 
.M. C. A. building lias been completed, Ste. 
Anne's hospital and the Textile school erect- 
ed, the churches of Ste. Anne's and Notre 
Dame parishes practically fini.3hed, and sev- 
eral modern business blocks erected about 
the centre, including the Bennett and Dunn 
buildings and the new home of the Daily 
Globe. A good amount of building is now 
under way, and includes the Sacred Heart 
Academy, Ste. Anne's rectory, tlie large ad- 
dition to the Boys' Club, St. Mary's and St. 
.Joseph's parochial schools, the storehouse 
of the Iron Works Co. and the new power 
plant of the Electric Light Co. 

The Rhode Island boundary line, which 
had been indefinite on account of its follow- 
ing for part of its distance the uncertain 
high water line of South Watuppa and Saw- 
dy ponds, and the connecting streams, was 
adjusted on straight lines in 1899, following 
a survey of boundaries l)y commissioners ap- 



pointed by the two States. The uncertainty 
of the line had offered opportunities for 
perplexing difficulties, in case of a crime 
near it, and a straight line was run, giving 
an equal division of territory. On the 
Tiverton line 140 acres were taken by Massa- 
chusetts, which were annexed to Fall River 
by a legislative act in 1902. 

The abolition of the grade crossings on 
the main line of the Old Colony railroad 
within the city limits and the Providence 
l)ranoh, which had been begun June 28, 1902, 
was completed June IG, 1905, when the via- 
duct connecting Central and Anawan streets 
was opened and the Pond street crossing 
closed. The petition of the aldermen for the 
work was signed July IG, 1894, and the first 
hearing before the commissioners held 
April G, 1895. The total cost to Jan. 1, 190G. 
which will be materially increased when 
payments for property damages not yet ad- 
justed are made, was $1,44S,4:{0.]5, shared by 
the railroad, state and city in the projxirtion 
of G.5, 25 and 10 per cent, respectively. Nine 
crossings were abolished, two at Brownell 
street and one each at Lindsey and Ballard. 
Davol, Turner, Danforth, Ferry, Pond and 
Water streets. As a rule the streets were 
depressed and the tracks raised from noth- 
ing to eight feet. The Fall River station 
was elevated eight feet to meet the new 
conditions. The old Central street tunnel, 
built when the road was first constructed, 
was torn down and rebuilt in enlarged form. 
Seven railroad bridges, counting one' re- 
placed, w'ere erected, and five highway 
bridges, including the viaduct, which is g:!7 
feet long. The work was accomplished 
without the interruption of train service, 
and re.sulted in the removal of death-traps 
that had already cost a number of lives. 




CHAPTER VII 



MAYOR JOHN T. COUGHLIN'S ADMINISTRATION 



Board ol Alderman 1906. O.her City Ofliciak 



The work of piciKiring this history forms a 
part, of the liistory of the administration of 
.Mayor .John T. Ooughlin. It was through the 
encouragement received from the Mayor and 
Aldermen that the compilers were enabled to 
overcome one of the most serious difficulties 
which confronted them at the outset of their 
iiiKleriaUing. 

John T. Coughlin took office in January, 
1905, with a Board of Aldermen largely op- 
posed to him politically. After the organiza- 
tion of the new government, with James Sin- 
clair as president, relations between the ex- 
ecutive and legislative departments began 
which were in marked contrast with the 
strife and bickering that prevailed following 
tne adoption of the new charter. Mayor 
Coughlin respected the prerogatives of the 
Aldermen, and the board worked in har- 
mony with the Executive. Consultations and 
conferences were frequent, and at no lime 
di<l differences arise. Economy -was the 
watchword, and there was a strict observ- 
ance of the provisions of the city charter 
governing expenditures and obligations. 

The first year of the administration was 
without a notable incident, save for a mild 
controversy over the placing of poles in tlie 
North Watuppa Pond by the Old Colony 
Railway Company for the purpose of convey- 
ing power from a station in Quincy to the 
lines in this city. A lease had been entered 
into by the members of the Reservoir Com- 
mission with the company, bocaus? of the 
<d)slacles put in the way of the railway cor- 
poration by owner.-! of private land. The 
action of the commission resulted in the re- 
peal of the ordinance by which it was cre- 
ated and the devolution of its powers upon 
the Mayor, city engineer and Water Board. 

During the year the Mayor, acting in be- 
half of the city, solved a problem which had 
vexed the municipality for a number of 
years. An agreement was entered Into with 



I lie Old Colony Railway Company whereby 
the expense of removing snow piled by plows 
in streets occupied by rails should be share, I 
equally by the city and the company. 

A review of the Mayor's life appears in the 
biographical chapter of this work. 

The beginning of the second year of the 
Coughlin administration 'was attended with 
some changes in the personnel of the Alder- 
men. Frederick Kendall gave way to Eu- 
gene E. Sullivan: Ephraim C. Niles to Wil- 
liam Booth; Frederick J. Gagnon to James 
H. Kay; William Burgess to John L. Shea; 
William Turner to Charles Lavoie; Dr. Sam- 
uel J. Kelly to Julian Hanson; L. Prank 
-Malone to John T. Kenney; Fi-ank Patnaude 
to Archibald St. George. Mr. Sinclair was 
continued as president. The attitude of tile 
.Ma.vor towards his associates in the carry- 
ing on of the government remained unal- 
tered. Neither trenched upon the rights of 
the other. In consequence there was no 
Clashing. Business ideas predominated, and 
the hand of the grafter was nowhere visible. 
Altogether the two years during which 
.Mayor Coughlin has been at the head of the 
city have been periods of progress and econ- 
omy, satisfactory to the citizens, irrespective 
of party. 

The present Board of .\ldermen was made 
up as follows: 

At Large— Eugene E. Sullivan, Frederick 
Moore. Charles Lavoie. William Lomax. 
Julian Hanson. James T. Bagshaw. Alansou 
J. Abbe, Orlando Draper and Joseph Turner. 

From Wards— George Smith, William 
Booth, Robert L. Manley. James H. Kay, 
Joseph O'Regan. John L. Shea. James J. Sul- 
livan. .John T. Kenney. Eidward F. Harring- 
ton, Cornelius Kelly, Silfred B. I-. Pouliot. 
Archibald St. George. Jamos Sinclair, George 
K. Johnson, Frank S. Almy, John S. H. Lan- 
nlgan, William B. Idng and William Westell. 




Members of Hoard ol Aldermen : First. Second and Th.rd Wards. 



Firif Ward-^Georee Smith, 
Second Ward— Robert L. Manlev, 
Third Ward-Joseph O'Reajtan. 



William Booth, 
Frederick Moore, 
John L. Shea, 



Eugene E. Sulliv 
James H. Kay. 
Charles Lavoie. 




Mcmbvrs ol Board of Aldermen! Fourth. Filtli and Siith W.ird:. 



Fourth Ward -AUcrm.in at-Larij.. William Lomax. lames }. SuUivan. 

Filth Ward-Alderman-at-LarKc Julian Hanson. Cornelius Kelly. 

Sixth Ward -Archibald St.GeofKC. James T. Ba|!:shaw, 



John T. Kenny. 
Edward F. Harrin>;ton. 
Leonldas Pcullott. 




Members ot tio.ud ot Aldermen: Seventh. Eighth and Ninth Wards. 

Seventh Ward— Hon. ;.imes Sinclair. Prest. AUanson ). Abbe, Vicc-Prcst. GtorRC T. ;ohnson. 

Eighth Ward— Orlando Draper, Frank S. Almy, John H. S. Lannigan. 

Ninth Ward— Joseph Turner. WiUiam Westell, William B. Ling. 



CHAPTER VIII 



FALL RIVER TO-DAY 



Its Attractive Situation and Advantages. Bright Prospect for the Future. 
Fine Water Works System 



Fall River to-day is a thriving community 
ot 110,000 people, industrious and energetic, 
lacing the future with confidence in the 
greater days that are to come. It is most at- 
II actively situated on granite-ribbed hills on 
the easterly shores of ilt. Hope Bay, an 
arm of Narragansett Bay, but 20 miles from 
the open sea, and is blessed with mild win- 
ters and cool breezes in summer, while 
across the bay a most beautiful view of rich 
[arming lands, interspersed with rivers, is 
unfolded to refresh the eye, and in the dis- 
tance Mt. Hope, the home of King Philip, 
the Indian chieftain, rises in silent majesty. 
Had it not been a manufacturing community. 
Fall River might have become one of the 
most popular summer resorts on the Atlantic 
coast, for nature has richly endowed it with 
beautiful surroundings. 

The water power that is developed by the 
stream from which the city takes its name, 
however, early turned the minds of its citi- 
zens to its value in the production of wealth, 
and one after another great mills have risen, 
first on the river and then in other sections 
till now the city is the foremost center of 
cotton manufacturing in the new world, with 
;j,:!00,000 spindles, employing 35,000 hands 
and using annually more than 400,000 bales 
of cotton. These factories represent an in- 
vestment of ? 10,000,000 at a moderate esti- 
mate, and are very largely owned by thou- 
sands of stockholders resident in the city. 
They produce a billion yards of cloth In a 
year, or nearly 1,900 miles for every working 
day, with a product ranging from the coars- 
est cotton goods, sucli as shoe linings, to 
the finest lawns and ginghams, with a 
marked tendency toward the finer goods that 
is growing stronger each year. The city 
also has extensive plants for the production 
of .Marseilles quilts, comforters, cotton for 
surgical use anil scores of other ijurposes. 

With the mills I'cu- nikiuifacturing collon 



cloths have risen great establishments for 
bleaching and printing the product, machine 
and belt shops and various smaller industries 
to supply the needs of the factories. There 
have also grown up large iilants for the 
manufacture of hats and thread, and many 
smaller industries, like piano making and 
the manufacture of braid, are making a start 
and promise to develop into large factories. 
The city's population is cosmopolitan and 
the people quick to learn new duties to 
which they may be called. 

Exceptional advantages for the shipment 
of goods by water are offered througli the 
safe and broad harbor, deep enough for the 
large vessels. Three lines to New York, the 
famous Fall River Line of the New York. 
New Haven and Hartford Railroad Company. 
the more recent Enterprise Transportation 
Comi)any and the .Toy Steamship Line, fur- 
nish daily communication with the metropo- 
lis. Steamers of the Dyer Transixjrtation 
Company make daily trips to Providence 
and the Winsor Line ships sail three times 
a week to Philadelphia. Fall River is a 
port of entry, ami in iK)lnl of tonnage regis- 
tered the sevonlli in importance on the At- 
lantic COilSt. 

Its railroad facilities are excellent, with 
large freight yards conveniently situaltnl and 
lines of the Old Colony Railroad, now leased 
by the New York, New Haven and Hartford, 
radiating in four directions, with frequent and 
comfortable trains. The Providence line has 
l)een equipped with electricity, and trains on 
that roa<l are run practically every half hour. 
.Ml the grade crossings on tho main lino 
within the city limits have been abolished. 
Electric street cars run to all sections of tho 
city, with six tickets for 25 cents, and a gen- 
eral transfer system. Lines have also been 
built to Providence, Taunton. New Bedford 
and Newport, and mi two of tlii.^e— those to 




Main Staircase and Entrance to City Hall 




New Aldernunu Chamler, Cly Hall 



48 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Providence and New Bedford — au electric 
freight service has been inaugurated. 

The city has 13S miles of public streets, 
many of them paved and macadamized, large 
and efficient fire and police departments and 
(ii; miles of sewers. Its schools are of the 
high standard required in all Massachusetts 
municipalities, with modern and adequate 
buildings and competent teachers. A splen- 
didly quipped textile sch(X)l has been erected 
and has a growing attendance. The public 
library has 70,000 volumes and is housed in 
a new and convenient structure. An excel- 
lent beginning has been made in the de- 
velopment of a park system, which now com- 
prises 100 acres. Pure water in abundance 
is supplied from a lake running parallel to 
the bay two miles from the shore. The valu- 
ation of the city. May 1, 1905, was $81,754,- 
217. The tax rate that year was $18.80 a 
thousand. The total area of the municipality 
is 41 square miles, with an extreme length of 
11 and extreme width of 7% miles. It is the 
fourth city in the Commonwealth in area, the 
sixth in valuation and the third in popula- 
tion. 

Four national banks, a trust company, four 
savings banks, and the same number of co- 
operative banks furnish facilities for the 
transaction of business, while hotels, clubs, 
lodges, churches and theatres supply other 
needs. There is a large Young Men's Chris- 
tian Association, with a new and well 
equipped home, a model Boys' Club, a Home 
for the Aged and various hospitals and or- 
phanages. Three daily newspapers are pub- 
lished here in the English language and 
one in French. 

While the population is to a large extent 
that usually found in manufacturing centres, 
the character of the residences is better 
than what is commonly expected. The mill 
blocks for the operatives are no longer built 
and those already standing are giving way 
to more comfortable and attractive dwell- 
ings. The number of citizens of moderate 
means is large and constantly increasing, 
though with but few rich citizens, and with- 
in the last quarter century hundreds of dwell- 
ings that would be a credit to any commu- 
nity have been erected and whole sections 
of the tjity have put on an air of prosperity 
and oomfort that is a continual surprise to 
visitors who liavc seen but one side of the 
lite here. TJiis, with tlie healthful and at- 
tractive situation, the pleasant drives, the 
improvement in the stores and the easy 
means of access to larger cities, Is making 



Fall River each year more and more a resi- 
dential city. 

The marvellous growth of the city since 
the civil war, from 17,000 to 110,000, a gain 
of, roughly, 550 per cent, in 40 years, has 
not until recent years allowed the develop- 
ment along some lines to as full a degree as 
desired. Large expenditures for schools, 
sewers, water works and fire and police de- 
partments have been absolutely necessary, 
and other public works, though they have 
received allenlion, have not been carried for- 
ward so rapidly as could be wished. Within 
the last few years these have been enabled 
to be pushed with more vigor, and parks, 
streets and. sidewalks are now in a fair way 
to be brought to a higher standard. 

The community has suffered severely 
through labor troubles and depressions in its 
chief industry, but has met these bravely 
and has risen from each stronger than be- 
fore. The spirit of the men who have made 
Fall River what it is still lives, in unabated 
vigor, and can be trusted to carry the city 
steadily on to greater and greater prosperity. 
A population of 150,000 fifteen years hence 
is not too much to expect; it is practically 
no larger gain in residents than has been 
made during the fifteen years just past. 
Every one who has the community's inter- 
ests at heart confidently believes that the 
best is yet to be and will do his utmost to 
bring it to pass. 

The excellent water works system is Just- 
ly one of the sources of pride on the i>art of 
the citizens. The source of supply is the 
beautiful North Watuppa Lake, within two 
miles of the centre of the city, with an area 
of 2.821 square miles, at an elevation above 
tide water of 129.42 feet and a watershed 
of 8. 02:; square miles. The water is re- 
markably pure, and in recent years steps 
have been taken to preserve it from contami- 
nation by the purchase of land surrounding 
the pond. The lake is fed almost entirely 
from its watershe<l and small streams wliich 
collect the water from the surrounding hills. 

The North Watuppa will undoubtedly 
furnish an adequate supply for years to 
come, but if with the growth of the city an 
additional source is needed, the adjoining 
South Watuppa can be drawn upon. The 
two lakes, separated by a dam at the Nar- 
rows, are 7 2-15 miles in length, with an 
average width of three-quarters of a mile 
and a total watershed of 27.54 square miles. 
They are capable of furnishing a dally water 
supply of 35,000,000 gallons, or about eight 




Old Aldcrnunic Chamber. City Hall 



50 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



times the average daily amount pumped in 
1905, while the Norlli Pond alone will fur- 
nish nearly three times the present con- 
sumption. Other ponds farther south are 
also available if a greater supply should be- 
come desirable. All have their outlet in the 
Quequechan River, running through the cen- 
tre of the city to the bay, which furnished 
the water power used by the early mills and 
still runs some water wheels in addition to 
supplying a large amount of water for the 
boilers of various factories and the use of 
the American Printing Company. 

The water works were buiit in 1873 to re- 
place the wells which were in general use 
throughout the city, and especially in the 
more densely populated section, as well as to 
provide more adequate facilities for fighting 
fire. An analysis of the water of the lake 
had been made in 1870, which showed that it 
was unusually pure, with only 1.80 grains of 
solid matter to the gallon. The first Iward 
of water commissioners, consisting of Philip 
D. Borden, William Lindsey and .Joseph A. 
Bowen, was elected by the city in the spring 
of 1871, and in the fall of the same year 
work was begun upon a road which it was 
necessary tp construct for nearly a mile and 
a half to give access to the site selected for 
a pumping station at the easterly end of 
Bedford street. The foundations for the 
engine-house, boiler-house and coal-house 
were bunt in 1872, and the superstructure 
completed the following year, of granite 
quarried in the immediate vicinity. A gran- 
ite tower, containing two standpipes, one for 
low-service, 48 feet above the highest point 
of the main 'pipe, and one for high service, 88 
feet aljove the top of the high pressure pipe, 
was also erected. It has a base 21 feet 
square and a total height of 121 feet. A bal- 
cony on the outside of the structure, at a 
height of 72 feet aliove the base and 324 feet 
above sea level, gives a commanding view 
of the surrounding country. 

The first engine was built in 1873 by the 
Boston Machine Company and pumped the 
first water through the pipes to the city in 
December, though not for general use till .Tan- 
uary 8, 1874, taking its supply from the gate 
house in the |K)nd. 22.") feet from shore and 
ten feet below high water mark. Other en- 
gines have since been ad<led, so that the 
station now has five running divisions avail- 
able, with a capacity of 18.000.000 gallons in 
24 hours, divided among the three i>umps. as 
follows; The Worthlngton, built in 187."i. 
a 5,000,000 engine; tlie Davidson, No. 1, con- 



structed in 1883, of 5,000,000 capacity, which 
consists of two 2,500,000 engines, and the No 
2 Davidson, dating from 1895, which can 
also be run in halves, with a united capacity 
of 8,000,000 gallons. All are in good condi- 
tion, and are run by four boilers, housed in 
two separate localities, thus diminishing the 
probabilities of a crippling accident to a 
large extent. 

The first pipes were laid at the time of 
the construction of the pumping station, and 
by September 1, 1876, amounted to 45.13 
miles, of from 6 to 24 inches. These have 
been extended from year to year, with 15,243 
feet laid in 1905, giving a total length on 
.January 1, 190G, of 100 miles. The hydrant 
system has also been extended, with 39 new 
hydrants erected in 1905, giving a total at 
the beginning of this year of 1,130. There are 
91 watering ixists and 21 watering troughs. 

The tank system had its inception in 1886, 
when the first tank was erected on Town- 
send Hill. In 1892 the second tank was built 
near the stand pipe tower on Bedford street, 
and five years later the Haskell street tank 
was erected. The capacity of the tank in the 
southern part of the city (Townsend Hill) 
is 1,101,448 gallons; that of the tank in the 
eastern section (Bedford street) is 1.38y.97(; 
gallons; and the one in the northern district 
(Haskell street) supplies 1,305,153 gallons. 
The united capacities are 3,916,577 gallons. 
Excellent results have followed the intro- 
duction of the tank system, as shown in the 
more even pressure, the better maintained 
liead, and the reserve supply at hand for 
sudden demands such as might be mdde in 
case of fires or other occasions calling for a 
large immediate draught from the mains. 
The average pressure is 80 pounds to the 
inch. 

The total cost of construction to December 
31, 1905, was $2,057,624.90, of which $25,- 
20G.09 was expended in 1905; the total ex- 
pense of maintenance to the same date was 
$4,014,058.64, of which $129,490.09 was for 
1905; and the total revenue $3,970,576.12, of 
which $180,191.27 was received in 1905. The 
expenditures in 1905 included $23,507.26 for 
extensions. $34,938.50 used by the reservoir 
commission in the purchase of land to 
protect the purity of the water, and $86,717.- 
50 paid for Interest. The excess of revenue 
over the cost of maintenance in 1905 was 
$50,701.18. 

The funds for the building of the system 
were provided by the issuance of bonds, and 
were supplemented by city appropriations 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



5J 



from 1S75 to 1897, inclusive, amounting in 
all to $773,800. The gross bonded debt Janu- 
ary 1, 190G, was $1,650,000, the value o* the 
sinking fund $588,544.42 and the net debt 
$1,061,455.58. Of the bonded debt $200,000 is 
the reservoir loan. The average rate of in- 
terest is 4.37 per cent. A total of $325,0i)0 
viras paid in 1905 from the sinking fund for a 
reduction of the debt. In 1904, $125,000' was 
paid for the reduction on the debt from the 
accumulated earnings. The department has 
been on a paying basis since 1897, and the 
sinking funds will take care of the debt 
from now on. 

The total number of gallons of water 
pumped in 1905 was 1,608.651,704: the aver- 
age daily consumption. 4. 4117, 265, and the 



which 933 favored the project and 89 op- 
posed. George A. Briggs was engaged as 
chief engineer, William Rolch as assistant 
and James P. Kirkwood as consulting en- 
gineer, and the work progressed as noleil 
above. Charles H. Churchill was the first 
clerk of the board and water registrar, and 
was succeeded February 10, 1879, by Wniiani 
W. Robertson, the present clerk and regis- 
trar, who had previously been his assistant. 
Caleb C. Potter and J. W. Milne have been 
clerks since March 1, 1879, and March IS, 
1883, respectively. Patrick Kieran, the su- 
perintendent, has been connected with the 
department since March 1, 1872, when he 
was appointed superintendent of pipe laying. 
He became superintendent of the department 




South Park. View of the Wading Pool 



average to each inhabitant per day 41.:',4 gal- 
lons. The number of meters in use January 
1, 1906, was 7,523. 

The water works had been urged for years 
before actual work was begun, but the first 
steps were not taken until a few days after 
Mayor Samuel M. Brown's (inaugural in 

1870, in which he urged the necessity of 
action. A committee was appointed shortly 
after this, and on November 29, 1870, 48 
acres at the head of Bedford street were 
purchased. W. J. McAIpine, a civil engineer, 
was engaged to make a report on the mat- 
ter and prepare plans, and on March 23, 

1871, the Legislature authorized the work 
when approved by a majority of the voters. 
This was obtained at an election April 10, at 



oil .May lij, 1886. His predecessors in 
that office were Messrs. Briggs, Rotch, Will- 
iam Carr, Jr., and A. H. Marline. The office 
of the department was in City Hall until 
July 23, 1900, when it was removed to a new 
building on Third street, where the repair 
shops are also situated. The present board 
consists of William Biltcliffe, president; 
Joseph Walters and Daniel J. Sullivan. 

The purity of the water in the ijonds has* 
been largely protected by the purchase by 
the city of land on its sihores under the 
direction of the Reservoir Commission, and 
further purchases are constantly being made. 
The commission was established under a 
city ordinance passed on April 25, 1895, and 
the first board, appointed by Mayor Greene 



52 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



on that date, organized on June 10. It con- 
sisted of Jeremiah R. Leary, Samuel Watson, 
George H. Eddy and the Mayor and city 
engineer, ex-officio, and it at once proceeded 
to make an investigation of the watershed of 
the North Watuppa and the streams flowing 
into it as to the danger of contamination. In 
view of the fact that the legislative act giv- 
ing the city the right to condemn land on 
the shore of the pond in the town of West- 
port to two years, a beginning was made 
there. Efforts to purchase the land desired 
were unsuccessful, and on March 7, 1S9G. 
the commission condemned the land needed. 
fi4 1-7 acres, all of which has been settled for. 
The next section to be taken was on the 
westerly shores of the iiond. within the city 



caused arose, and an exhaustive stufly of 
the capacity of the ponds, the amount of the 
discharge of the streams, the extent and 
character of the watershed of the North and 
South Watuppa, the evaporation, rainfall 
and flow of the North into the South pond 
was made by the city engineer, with Arthur 
T. Safford of Lowell, consulting engineer. 
Measurements were carried on continuously 
from January 1, 1899, to December 31, 1901, 
and an extended and valuable report, with 
recommendations, was made in 1902. 

The commission was abolished by city 
ordinance June 5, 1905, and its duties de- 
volved on a new board consisting of the 
three members of the water board and the 
Mayor and city engineer. ex-ofTicio. I'p to 




R^^gghs P.,rfc. (r, 



■ of Pine and Scibiiry Stn 



limits, where the same method was pursued, 
and on April 3, 1897, a strip extending back 
from the shore from 200 to 700 feet, with an 
average width of about 400 feet, and running 
from land of the Crystal Ice Company to 
the New Boston road, was taken. In the 
following Decetnber a further condemnation 
was made of "all the Islands in the North 
Watuppa Pond . . . The whole of said 
pond below High Water Line of said pond. 
. . . Also all the water of said pond and 
the land under said jiond." 

As it appeared po.s.sible that it might be 
necessary to divert certain streams empty- 
ing Into the iKjnd. the question of the result 
of the diversion and the possibility of replac- 
ing from other sources any deflciency 



May 10, 190G, the total amount of land ac- 
quired was 2,716.95 acres, at a cost of $213,- 
035.85, which had been met partly by loans 
and partly from the revenues of the water 
department. By city ordinance all further 
purchases are to be made from the wai'er 
works funds. The commission has in all 
cases purchased the land it desired instea<l 
of prohibiting its use, as has been done in 
some other cities. 

The city's park system consists of three 
I)arks of nearly 100 acres, of which about 75 
have been improved, and three small tracts 
known as Durfee Green, Cambridge Green 
and Eastern avenue. Since the appointment 
of a park commission by Mayor Grime, in 
1902, a notable advance has been made In 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



53 



the development of these lands, with the aid 
of loans aggregating ?182,000, and though 
much yet remains to be done, the parks are 
now very creditable to the city, and when 
completed in accordance with plans already 
formulated will do much toward its adorn- 
ment and attractiveness. 

The largest of the three principal parks, 
the South Park, comprises 60 acres, lying be- 
tween South Main street, Bradford avenue 
and Middle street, and extending westward 
to the bay. It was purchased in 1868, and in 
1871 was laid out from South Main street to 
Broadway, but the remainder was left un- 
touched. The North Park, of 29 acres, was 
originally a part of the city farm and was 
set aside for park purposes in 1883. but prac- 



of Brookline, were secured as architects of 
the local park system, and the improvements 
that followed were in accordance with his 
plans. 

During the summer the regrading and gen- 
eral improvement of the South Park was 
carried on, and four lots adjoining the park 
on the north and bordering on the bay were 
purchased. The eastern section was com- 
pleted the following year and work on the 
tract between Broadway and Bay streets be- 
gun. Ruggles Park was graded, turfed and 
made to assume its present attractive ap- 
pearance. In 1904 work was started on the 
North Park, which also lequired extensive 
grading, and the western half completed the 
following year. The .smaller parks also re- 
ceived attention. 




North Park. Vi< 



Wading Pool, sliowing a portion of llic RunninK Track and tht 
location of an Oul-door Gymnasium 



tically nothing was done for its development 
till 1904. It is in the northern part ot the 
city, between Highland avenue on the east. 
North Main and High streets on the west. 
Hood street on the north and Brownell street 
and President avenue on the south. 

The new board took oath of office on May 
5, 1902, and organized with Mr. Small as 
chairman and Mr. Doherty secretary. The 
control of the public cemeteries, which had 
formerly been in the hands of a committee 
of the City Council, had fallen to the new 
Doard under an act approved April 1, 1902, 
and Charles Smith, then acting as superin- 
tendent of Oak Grove Cemetery, was elected 
superintendent of parks and cemeteries. The 
firm of Olmsted Bros., landscape architects. 



Ruggles Park, named for park purposes 
June 10, 1895, was pan of a tract of 12 acre.-i 
purchased in April, 1868, which was reduced 
by the cutting through of Pine and Seabury 
streets. It was formerly part of the Rodman 
farm, known as Ruggles Grove, whence the 
name. It lies between Seabury, Pine and 
Ix>cust streets contains 8.6 acres and was 
waste land, used for a dump until the sum- 
mer of 1903. Durfee Green and Cambridge 
Green are small, triangular tracts, of 23 and 
14 rods, respectively, at the intersection of 
streets, and "Eastern avenue" consists of 
two strips of a width of about 10 feet, sep- 
arated by a path, and in the centre of East- 
ern avenue. It is about 1,450 feet in length. 

As has been said, very little had been done 



54 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



for any of these tracts, except for the east- 
ern section of the South Park, prior to the 
appointment of commissioners in 1902. This 
was in accordance with the decisive vote of 
the citizens at the municipal election in 
December of the previous year, when, by a 
vote of G.563 to 1,519 they had accepted the 
State law authorizing a commission to lay 
out public parlis. The appointment of thfe 
members of the board was made l)y vVIayor 
Grime April 14, 1902, with Richard H. Cook, 
Edward A. Doherty, Reuben C. Small, .Jr., 
Charles R. Danielson and Matthew A. Mc- 
Clarence, commissioners for terms ranging 
from five years in the case of Mr. Cook to 
one year for Mr. McClarence. The work al- 
ready done in grading, the construction of 



for interment; the small Oak Tree Ceme- 
tery adjoining, and Oak Grove Cemetery, for 
which 47 acres were i)urchased in 1S55, and 
which has been enlarged by variotis pur- 
chases since that time. 

There is one important natural curiosity — 
the rolling rock, on County street. This is a 
Ijotilder of coarse conglomerate, though the 
ledge on which it rests is of granite, showing 
that it was brought here by diluvial action. 
It has a horizontal circumference of 58 feet, 
with a thickness of eight feet, and is of an 
estimated weight of 140 tons. It was so 
nicely balanced that until recent years, when 
it became blocked up, it could be moved per- 
ceptibly with one hand, and by using both 
hands the top could be made to oscillate two 




vc:^"?.^^?:^, 



Soutli Park, View Sliowing the Effect of Slmifchcry Grouping 



|)laygroiinds and walks and the planting of 
shrubbery has won general commendation, 
as well as a sense of indebtedness to R. E. 
Small, Jr., and Edward A. Doherty, the first 
chairman and secretary of the board, respec- 
livoly, who were untiring in their efforts to 
make the i>arks worthy of the city. Mr. 
Doherty resigned on his appointment as an 
assessor in 190;;, and was succeeded by 
Thonia.3 .1. Madden. Howard I.flthrop, who 
had been resident engineer, has been super- 
intendent since 1904, 

The three cemeteries that come under the 
control of the Park Commission and which 
are being gra<lually improved, are the North 
Uiirlal Ground on North Main street, pur- 
chased In 1825, and long the principal place 



or three inches. In old bounds the rock is 
referred to as "The Goose-nesting Rock." 

The present City Hall, of Fall River 
granite, was erected in Market Square in 
1845-4G at an expense of $Gr>.000, and was 
considered a model for its time. It had a 
town lockup in the basement, a market on 
the first lloor and a large hall, with offices 
in front on the second. With the growth of 
the city more office accommodation was de- 
sired, and in 1872-73 It was entirely rebuilt, 
with the addition of a mansard roof, tower, 
clock, etc. at a cost of $200,000. On March 
19. 1S8C the roof aiui interior were de- 
stroyed, leaving only the walls. It was at 
once reconstructed in its present form, at 
an expense of about $300,000. 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



55 



The public sewers January 1, 1906, 
amounted to G5.94 miles, nearly all of which 
had been built within a generation and in 
many cases at heavy cost on account of the 
granite ledges encountered. The first sewer 
here had been built in 1S57, in Spring and 
Washington streets, and was, like most of 
the early sewers, intended primarily to carry 
off surface water, but so constructed that 
it was easily adapted to the present system. 
Another was built in Odd street in ISoS. to 
take water from French's hill. The Central 
street sewer, to care for water from that 
street, followed in 1S59, connecting with gut- 
ters instead of allowing the water to flow 
into docks, which the sand had been filling 



up. Culverts in Pleasant street, near Third, 
also for surface water, were built in 18G0, 
and in 1804 various short sewers along the 
harbor front to carry water under the rail- 
road tracks, which had then been extended 
to NewiMrt. In the early 70's some sewers 
began to be constructed in more thickly i)op- 
ulated sections, and in 1S73 Phineas Ball, a 
civil engineer, was employed to prepare a 
system of sewerage, which was accepted and 
has been generally followed. The real be- 
ginning in sewer construction was made the 
following year, when 9,329 feet were ibuilt 
at a cost of $70,352. Since then it has been 
pushed as rapidly as the city's finances al- 
lowed. 




Sntith P.irk. Vi^w of the W.idiiiK Pool, looking North 



CHAPTER IX 



EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES 



Growth and Efficiency of the Modern School System. The Public Library 



The school system of Fall River is one in that is noted for its high standard in educa- 

which the citizens justly take pride. The tion. 

city was the lirst in the State to establish The last annual report of the supermtend- 

the free text book system, thus making its ent showed 15,920 children enrolled m the 

schools free in everv sense of the word, and day schools and 3.520 in the evenmg schools. 




:tt B. Diirlcc. Superintendent ol Schook 



it also furnished manual I raining in its high 
school years before it was required by State 
law. During the last half century the 
schools have steadily advanced under wise 
and progressive guidance, with liberal appro- 
priations from the city government, till now 
they are among the best in a commonwealth 



The number of schoolhouses was 53. with 
10,847 sittings. There were 291 separate 
schools — one high, 59 grammar, 70 Interme- 
diate, 155 primary, three ungraded and three 
kindergartens. The whole number of teach- 
ers employed was 451, 25 of whom were in 
tlio high school, s:; gramnmr, SI intermediate 



HISTORY OF FALL RTVER 



57 



and 198 primary. The number employed 
in evening schools was 146. The total 
expense of the depart ment for the year end- 
ing December :il, 1905, was ?3G4,04S.17, of 
which $S2,9.^1.47 was expended by the public 
buildings department for repair.s, fuel, jani- 
tors, etc. 

Though since 1S50 the city has had public 
schools that it has every reason to be proud 
of, the public educational facilities here prior 
to that date appear to have nothing to boast 
of. The present and past are compared con- 
cisely in a school report of 1SG9, in which it 
is asserted that the character of the schools 
had changed from those of low grade for 
children of parents unable to patronize pri- 
vate institutions, to the schools of the whole 
people, rich and poor alike, while "instead of 
rude, cheap buildings, upon land valueless 
for other purposes, costly edifices furnished 
with every convenience are erected upon the 
most beautiful sites that can be selected." 



'' tftiifey "!'•"' 


•.\„.^^]i/ 


^ 


^M 


1 


^o 


BHIi^?fiy''''"-ia 


^s 


^Bl 



The N. B. Borden Sctiool 

The extent to which thi' private school 
flourished here is indicated by the fact that 
in 1826 there were 14 private Institutions and 
12 public. The latter were under the super- 
vision of a general school committee of 
three, elected at the annual town meeting, 
but the active control was largely in the 
hands of the school districts into which the 
town had been divided in 1818, originally 
nine, but later increased to 14. The district 
system was retained until 1864, though the 
committee had urged its abolishment for 
years before such action was taken. The 
system had many faults, for while it worked 
fairly well in the more thickly populated sec- 
tions, which were able to erect good build- 
ings and provide competent teachers, la the 
country, where the population was more 
scattered, there were few pupils and the 
schoolhouses the citizens were willing to 
assess themselves to build were often unfit 



for the purpose. There was a tendency, too, 
to hire teachers at the lowest possible rates, 
without much regard for competency, and 
dissensions among the members of the dis- 
trict also contributed to demoraliza'tion. 
The reports of the school committee in the 
4U's bear repeated condemnation of the 
schoolhouses in the country districts, which 
are declared to be far better fitted for pig- 
sties or barns than for schools. The re- 
port of 1847 says of one school, kept in the 
bedroom of a dwelling, that the room "does 
not exceed Sxl2, while the school numbered 
17, making a tight fit when the teacher was 
aaded." 

The earliest school report available is that 
of 1842, which, like those that follow, strong- 
ly condemns the condition of some of the 
buildings, the lack of maps, blackboards and 
other apparatus, and the poor and irregular 
attendance. Discipline was poor, and there 
are hints at rebellions in some of the tem- 
ples of learning. But one school had a bell, 
and it is suggested that arrangements be 
made lo have the Pocasset mill bell rung at 
school times. Women teachers were em- 
ployed in the summer, at $10.25 a month in 
IS46, while men in the winter term received 
f02..50. The committee complain of inade- 
quate compensation— $49.91 to be divided 
among three for a year's service. State afd 
was still being received— $448.55 in 1848, 
when the town appropriation was $8,G00. 
An evening school was established this year, 
:S48, and a high school in 1849. A special 
school for factory children was started in 
1SC2 and in 1SC5 the almshouse was made 
the place for the detention and instruction 
cf truants, where they remained till the 
union truant school was established in 1890. 
The annexation of Fall River, R. I., in 18G2, 
brought in a number of additional buildings. 
Some notice of the location of the early 
schoolhouses in the better populated sec- 
tions may be of interest. A map of 1S12 
shows three houses, one in Tiverton at the 
corner of South Main and Hamlet, one at 
the corner of North Main and Prospect, and 
one at Steep Brook. The "green school- 
house" on the north side of Franklin, be- 
tween Winter and Rock, was erected in 
1832. The Anawan street school was estab- 
lished two years later in the remodelled Con- 
gregational Church. This was burned in the 
fire of 1843, and the present structure, then 
regarded as a model building, erected. In 
speaking of the grammar room in this build- 
ing in 1848, the committee says it is "prob- 



58 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



ably the most perfect school room in Bristol 
County, and your committee doubt if it has 
many superiors in our State." The High 
street school was opened in 1845, in a small 
building on Franklin street, till the old High 
street, or Lincoln school, was completed 
soon after. This had double desks, changed 
to single in 1855. The June street school 
was built in 1849, and the Maple street in 
1855 and dedicated December 27 of that 
year. The Columbia street building had 
been occupied in 1852. Other schools were 
on Canal and Bedford streets and Town ave- 
nue. 

A most important forward step was taken 
in 18G5, when a school superintendent was 
elected in accordance with an ordinance 
passed March 20. Rev. Daniel W. Stevens, a 
graduate of Harvard College, was the first 
superintendent and began his duties at the 
opening of the fall term, when the members 
of the committee, who had this year been 
increased from six to nine, ceased to receive 



rf 



<^ 



I 






11^. t. 



compensation, in accordance with the Stale 
law. The meetings of the board were held 
in the Aldermanic chamber, but soon after 
removed to ofRces fitted up in the old engine 
house on Rock and Franklin streets. Mr. 
Stevens devoted himself to the improvement 
of the attendance, then about the lowest in 
the State in proportion to the number of 
legal pupils, and also to the installation of 
maps, blackboards and other needed articles 
In the schools. The first truant officer was 
api)ointed in ISCG, and modern furniture 
|)laced In some buildings the following year. 
Mr. Stevens was succeeded in ISGG by Mal- 
colm W. TewUsbury, and In 1872 by William 
Ccmnell, who remained in office till his 
death, June 23, 1894. 

The rapid growth of the city in the years 



following the Civil War necessitated the con- 
struction of numerous new schoolhouses to 
accommodate the increased numbers of pu- 
pils. The Morgan school, the first of the 
large buildings, was erected and occupied at 
the commencement of the summer term, in 
18GS, the Bedford street school (the Brown), 
the Robeson, on Columbia street, and the 
Borden, on Brownell street, were begun in 
i870, the Davis, Slade and Daveniwrt, fol- 
lowed in 1873-7G, and the Tucker street. Bor- 
der City, Pleasant street, Danforth street 
and Lindsey street buildings prior to 1880. 
The Broadway building was occupied in 1881 
and the Linden and Cambridge street houses 
erected. The Ferry Lane was enlarged in 
1882, and the halls in the Border City, Slade 
and Davis divided into school rooms. The 
Mount Hope avenue, Covel street and Brown- 
ell followed in 1884. 

Meantime other matters of interest were 
taking place. The high school had been 
established by a town meeting vote in April, 
1849, when $1,500 was appropriated for its 
support, and it opened May 10 of that year 
in the private school building of George 'B. 
Stone, the first principal, on the south side 
(if Franklin street, a little cast of Oak. 
Schools of this kind were of comparatively 
ncent growth, and prior to 1837, when Bal- 
timore established one, there had been none 
in the United States outside of Massachu- 
.si tts. New York acted in the same year as 
Fall River, but though girls were instructej 
here from the first', Boston had no high 
school for them till 1853 and New York none 
till 1870. The school was removed to the 
present Foster Hooper building, erected for 
it, in 1852, occupying at first only the upper 
floor. The lower room was added in 18GS, 
when the teaching of French was begun and 
a three years' English course inaugurated. 
.Vdmission was then solely by examination. 
The building was later enlarged, and for a 
number of years the first year classes were 
held in the Davenport building. 

The problem of housing the high school 
pupils had grown serious, when in 1882 Mrs. 
Mary B. Young offered to huild the present 
B. M. C. Dupfce high school in memory of 
her son. The generous proposition was ac- 
cepted and the beautiful structure was be- 
gun in 1S83 and dedicated June 15, 1SS7. The 
building occupies a commanding situation in 
the midst of large grounds and is of granite 
in the modern Renaissance style. It has a 
total length of 253 feet, with a greatest width 
of 90 feet, and has two towers, one an ob- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



59 



servatory, with telescope, and the other a 
clock tower, with chimes. It is fireproof, 
with numerous schoolrooms, chemical and 
physical laboratories, gymnasium ami drill 
halls, a large auditorium, manual tiaining 
rooms, library, offices, etc.. and has an en- 
dowment of $50,000, the gift of Mrs. Young. 
It was occupied in the fall of ISST. 

These men have been principals of the 
high school: George B. Stone, 1S49 55: 
James B. Pearson, 1855-58; Charles B. Goff. 
185S-G4; Albion K. Slade, 1804-74; William 
H. Lam'bert, 1874-79; W. T. Leonard, IsTS- 
85; William H. Lannbert, 1SS5-90; R. T. 
Leighton, 1890-92; Charles C. Ramsay, 1892- 
1902; George F. Pope, since 1902. 

The fact that this city was the first to 
give free text books, thus maldng its pub- 
lic schools free in every sense of the word, 
is justly a source of considerable pride. The 
change was made gradually, beginning in 





i^ 


' 


^m^^^s 




2M|^^ 


^ 


^ 


^Ky 


ml^r 


IB 




1 



Plymouth Avenue School 

April, 1874, following the passage by the 
Legislature the previous year of a permis- 
sive act. Prior to that time the law had al- 
lowed the supplying of books to children of 
indigent parents, but this had never worked 
well, as it tended to caste feeling. The 
change to the free book system involved an 
expense of $11,000 the first year, but after 
that the cost fell to about $5,000 a year. It 
had beneficial effects in the relief of the 
poor, the saving in cost, the prompt supply 
of books when needed, and an increased at- 
tendance. The State law requiring free 
books did not go into effect till August, 18S4. 

A beginning of a training school was made 
in the High street building in 1SG8, and soon 
after a normal course was established in the 
high school, though this consisted of only 
one year's review of English branches. 

In February, 1881, a training school was 



formally established in the Robeson building, 
removed in 1891 to the Osborn building on its 
completion. Miss Emily Richards was the 
first principal and Miss Ariadne J. Borden 
the second. Miss Elizabeth S. Hammett was 
principal from 1891 to 1S9G, when she was 
succeeded by Miss Anna W. Braley. 

In recent years a large number of attrac- 
tive schoolhouses, equipped with the best of 
modern conveniences, have heen erected to 
care for the growing school population. 
Among these have been the Coughlin and 
William Connell buildings, opened in 1895; 
the James M. Aldrich and George B. .SVone, 
in 1897; the Fowler, in 1898; the Brayton 
avenue, in 1899, and the Samuel Ivongfellow 
and Highland, in 1901. The Samuel WUtson 
.school, on Eastern avenue, is completed and 
ready for occupancy, and a new building is 
rising on the site of the High street or Lin- 
coln, school, burned in December, 1905. 

Noteworthy changes in recent years have" 
included the inauguration of the diploma 
system in the grammar schools in 1S89, the 
same year as the estaldishment of the Davis 
piize medals, from a fund contributed iBy 
lion. R. T. Davis, the appointment of special 
instructors in music and drawing in 1887, 
and the introduction of sewing in 1S9G. 

William Connell, who had been the faith- 
ful superintendent for 22 years, was suc- 
ceeded on his death, in 1894, by William C. 
Bates. The latter resigned in 1905 to be- 
come superintendent of the Cambridge 
schools, and Everett B. Durfee. vice principal 
of the high school, was elected his successor. 

BRADFORD DURFEE TEXTILE SCHOOL. 

Manual training as a part of the educa- 
tional system of Fall River dates from the 
opening of the B. M. C. Durfee high school 
building in 1887. The course in manual 
training, however, w-as necessarily limited in 
its scope to instruction in mechanical draw- 
ing and the use of wood and iron working 
machinery. This introduction of manual 
training into the curriculum of the high 
school marked the beginning of the applica- 
tion of the utilitarian idea to the work of the 
public schools and served to emphasize the 
possibilities of its extension into the field 
of cotton manufacturing. 

Although the value of the school of expe- 
rience in the acquisition of the best methods 
for converting cotton Into ck)th was recog- 
nized, the value of the theoretical when 
combined with the practical was urged by 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



61 



leading citizens as a reason why this city 
the leading textile centre of the coutftry' 
should have a school devoted entirely to in- 
struction in the theory, art ana practice of 
the operation of textile machinery. 

The outgrowth of that conviction was the 
organization of a corporation under a statute 
approved June 5, 1895, by men of civic spirit 
and progressive ideas, "for the purpose of 
establishing and maintaining a textile school 
for instruction in the theory and practical 
art of textile and kindred branches of in- 
dustry, with authority to take bv gift „r pur- 
chase and hold personal or real estate to the 
amount of |300,000," according to the terms 
ot the law. 

A site bought for the school was aban- 
doned for one offered by a public spirited 
lady, Miss Sarah S. Brayton, as a memorial 
to a kinsman, Bradford Durfee, who had dis- 
tinguished himself in the early history of the 
municipality as a citizen and a manufacturer. 
In the preparation of plans for a building 
thought was given to light, ventilation, pro- 
portion, strength and serviceability. The 
architectural design embodied a modification 
of the colonial style by the use of Fall River 
granite relieved by gray mottled pressed 
brick. The conception of the architect after- 
wards found expression in a magnificent 
creation of the art of the builder. It is mas- 
sive and symmetrical, and thoroughly 
adapted for the purpose for which it was 
planned. This, as defined in the catalogue 
for 1905, is "to meet the needs of two distinct 
classes of students: one class being those 
who wish a preliminary training in the art 
of manufacturing before entering upon the 
practical work in the mill; the other being 
those already at work in the mill, who feel 
the necessity for a training in the principles 
of the art and a greater knowledge of all the 
departments of their chosen vocation." To 
make iwssible the meeting of the need, a 
mechanical equipment was installed of a 
character that ensured the very best results 
from the consideration of modern ideas. Con- 
stant development was the aim sought in 
the furnishing of the work and class rooms 
and the laboratories, and the best product 
of mechanical ingenuity found a place with- 
in the magnificent edifice, much of it pre- 
sented by makers of machinery and other 
material. 

When the school was opened to students 
March 7, 1904, the event marked what it is 
thought will prove to be another epoch in 
the industrial history of Fall River. Confi- 



dence, skill and enterprise are the qualities 
entering into the large measure of success 
attained by the city since the first efforts 
here in the fabrication of cotton. Growth 
has ever been the characteristic of the in- 
dustry, else the proud pre-eminence at- 
tained by Fall River would not have been 
possible. Education between factory walls 
has accomplished wonders, but the evolu- 
tionary limit is still far in the distance. 

In furtherance of the approach thereto 
instruction in the textile school is shaped 
under the supervision of Joseph W. Bailey 
whose training fits him admirably for the 
responsibility of directing an institution 
which means much for this community if 
properly maintained and encouraged. Theory 
and practice are made interdependent, so 
that It is possible immediately by those 
pupils engaged at mill work to enjoy the 
truits of the knowledge that is imparted hy a 
faculty that is composed of earnest, capable 
men. With the realization of what is con- 
templated has come an awakening of in- 
terest in the school among operatives and 
others to whom the course of study appeals 
as affording a golden opportunity for striving 
for the betterment of their condition. In con- 
sequence, the beginning of the second vear 
of the school has been attended by an en- 
rollment that presages a large fulfillment of 
the promise of success. 

The citizenship of the city is fully repre- 
sented on the directorate. Faith in and con- 
cern for the industrial future of Fall River 
animate its members. The president of the 
corporation is Leontiue Lincoln;; the vice- 
president, William Evans; the clerk, Wil- 
liam Hopewell; the treasurer, Arthur S. 
Philiij.s. Associated with them are 

DIRECTORS: 



William S. (ireene. Leontine Lincoln, 

Thomas O'Donnell, James Tansey, 

Joseph G. Jackson, .Arthur S. Phillips, 

John W. Coughlin. William Moran, 

John McCarthy, .janies Whitehead, 

Edward B. Jenning:;, William Evans, 

Arthur M. Hamilton, William Hopewell, 

John S. Brayton, Hugo A. Dubuque,' 

Simeon B. Chase, Robert T. Davis. 

Edward S. Adams. 

P. Augustus Mathewson, 

.Tohn T. Coughlin, Mayor. 

Everett B. Durfee, Siipl. of Schools. 

.las. E. Cunncen, Apiwinted by the Governor. 

Geo. W. Wright, Appointed by the Governor. 



62 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



THE PUBLIC LIBRARY. 

The Fall River Public Library had its 
origin in the Fall River Athenaeum, which, 
in accordance with an act of the Common- 
wealth of Massachusetts authorizing the cre- 
ation of Library and Lyceum Corporations, 
was established in 1835, "by a few individ- 
uals desirous of having a library of well- 
selected standard and miscellaneous boolis 
always at hand for the purpose of general 
reading and reference." 

A warrant for the first legal meeting was 
issued by Joseph Gooding. Justice of the 
Peace, March 31, 1835, and the meeting was 
held on the first Monday in April. The 
stock of the corporation was placed in 
shares, unlimited in number, and the price 
was fixed at $5.00 each, subject to an annual 
assessment of $1.00 per share. Several hun- 
dred dollars were quickly raised on the sale 




Public Library Building 

of shares, a room was fitted up in the Post 
Office and Custom House building on Main 
street, where City Hall now stands, and the 
institution went at once into successful 
operation. 

The first annual report of the Board of 
Direction to the Stockholders, submitted in 
April, 1830, shows that during the year 
$702.00 had been received from the sale of 
shares, annual assessments and fines, and 
that the disbursements amounted to the 
sum of $G4().00, that the library consisted of 
about 500 volumes and that the circulation 
had averaged about fifty volumes per week. 

Although the Athenaeum was a private 
venture, its beneficial induences were at 
once strongly felt and appreciated by the 
citizens of the town, but its growth was 
seriously impeded by a lack of sufficient 
funds to broaden the scope of its work. 
I'yarly in 1837, the Town of Fall River re- 
ceived from the United States Government 
lis share of the "Surplus Revenue" amount- 
ing to $10,102. This sum, coming so unex- 



pectedly into the Town Treasury and in a 
manner so unprecedented, caused much 
comment and speculation as to its proper 
use, and friends of the Athenaeum Library 
strongly urged that a portion of this amount 
■ might with great propriety be invested in 
shares of the library for the benefit of de- 
serving scholars in our public schools." At 
a town meeting, April 3, 1837, $800 was ap- 
propriated and the Town Treasurer was in- 
structed to subscribe for 160 shares in the 
Fall River Athenaeum, the use of the shares 
to be placed at the disposal of and to be 
represented by the school committee, which 
was empowered to issue certificates entitling 
deserving scholars to the use of the shares 
at its pleasure. This act of the town places 
Fall River among the first towns in the State 
to appropriate a special sum of money to 
make a distributing library an adjunct of the 
liublic school system. 

.N'otwithstanding this assistance the 
growth of the Athtnaeum Library, as com- 
pared with modern standards, was slow, for 
on July 2, 1843, when the greater part of the 
town of Fall River was destroyed by fire. 
Ihv number of volumes in the library was 
but 1,195; all of these were lost, with the 
txception of a few books of little value which 
at the time were in the hands of subscribers 
whose houses were not burned. The Athe- 
naeum property was insured in the Cohannet 
Aaitual Insurance Company to the amount of 
^son, but, as the company sustained great 
losses on account of the fire, causing its 
failure, only $541 was recovered on the 
policy. With this small sum of money, and 
the few books whioli were not destroyed, the 
directors at once began the formation of a 
new library, which in ISGO had reached the 
number of 2,362 volumes. The collection 
was Iioused in the Town Hall and later on 
Franklin street in the old Music Hall. 

In ISGO the demands of the people for a 
Free Public Library had ibecome so insistent 
that the stockholders of the Athenaeum As- 
sociation, who were favorably disposed 
toward such a movement, offered to trans- 
fer to the City of Fall River the Athenaeum 
library for the purpose of forming a library 
for the free distribution of books. The offer 
was accepted, and July 23, 1860, an ordi- 
nance was passed by the City Council of 
Fall River for the establishment of a Free 
Public Library, a Board of Trustees was 
elected and an appropriation was made for 
its maintenance. 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



63 



The Fall River Athenaeum Association 
held its last meeting October 2, 1S60, when 
it was voted— "That the Board of the Fall 
River Athenaeum be authorized to transfer 
to the City of Fall River the library of said 
Athenaeum upon terms mutually satisfac- 
tory; taking care, however, properly to pro- 
tect the ultimate interests and rights of 
existing stockholders or those who may law- 
fully represent them in said Athenaeum." 

The agreement between the City of Fall 
River and the Fall River Athenaeum was as 
follows: "This agreement, made and con- 
cluded this Seventh Day of December, in the 
year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred and 
Sixty, by and between the Fall River 
Athenaeum, a body corporate in the City of 
Fall River, County of Bristol, and Common- 
wealth of Massachusetts, of the one part, 
and said City of Fall River on the other 
part. Witnesseth. That for the purpose of 
establishing a Public Library in the City of 
Fall River, and in consideration of the 
promises and agreements on the part of said 
City hereinafter contained, the said Fall 
River Athenaeum have agreed to transfer, 
assign, and set over, and do hereby transfer, 
assign, and set over, to said City and its 
successors, for the use of the. Public Library 
of said City only, all and singular the books 
belonging to the Library of said Athenaeum, 
now contained therein, the appraised value 
of which is Three Thousand Dollars, and for 
a list of which said books reference may be 
had to a copy of the Catalogue thereof at- 
tested by the Directors of the Athenaeum 
and herewith rendered the City of Fall River. 
To have and to hold the same to said City 
and its successors, to its and their use and 
behoof forever, tor the purpose aforesaid. 
And the said City of Fall River, in consider- 
ation of the agreement and transfer afore- 
said, of said Athenaeum, both on its part for 
itself and its successors and assigns, and 
the above agreement and transfer are upon 
these express conditions, viz.: That in case 
said Public Library should be abandoned at 
any time, books to the amount of Thi-ee 
Thousand Dollars in value, or their equiva- 
lent, that being the appraised value of the 
Athenaeum Library as before stated, shall 
be returned by said City or its successors, 
to said Athenaeum, its successors or as- 
signs: that the rights and privileges of the 
Public Library shall bo extended to Robert 
McEwen and David Robertson, residents of 
Fall River, Rhode Island, and their legal 
representatives, su^bject to the rules and 



regulati ons the reof, same as citizens of the 
CityoTFall River, and that the City of Fall 
Ri\'er will assume to pay the existing Indebt- 
edness of said Athenaeum to an amount not 
exceeding Sixty Dollars. In witness thereof 
the Directors of the Fall River Athenaeum 
lor this purpose duly authorized, have here- 
unto set the name of said Athenaeum and 
their own names, and the Trustees of the 
Public Library of the City of Fall River, for 
this purpose duly authorized by a vote of 
the City Council, have hereunto set the name 
of said City, and their own names, the day 
and year above written. 

(Signed) 
Fall River Athenaeum, by 
Walter C. Durfee, Henry Lyon, 
Charles O. Shove, Isaac B. Chace, 
Foster Hooper, Benjamin Barl, 

A. S. Tripp, Jesse Eddy, 

Directors. 
City of Fall River, by 
E. P. Buffinton, P. W. Leland, 

Walter Paine. 3d, Henry Lyon, 
Samuel M. Brown, Charles J. Holmes, 
Simeon Borden, 

Trustees of 
City Library. 

In addition to the collection from the 
Athenaeum there was also given by the 
Ocean Fire Company a valuable and well- 
selected little library of 214 volumes which 
had been collected by the members of the 
company for their own use. 

The southwest room on the second floor 
in the City Hall building was fitted up and 
the library was opened to the public May 
1. ISGl, only ten years after the foundin.g 
of the first free public library in the State of 
Massachusetts to be supported by general 
taxation, which was that of the City of Bos- 
ton. 

George A. Hallanl was the first librarian, 
being elected December 7. ISfiO. and holding 
the position until February 14, ISGI, when 
he resigned and was succeeded by Charles 
G. Remington, who served but a few months. 
William R. Ballard was the next librarian, 
his official connection beginning November 
28, 1SC4, and ending with his death Novem- 
ber 30, 1905, a period of fort.v-one .vears of 
faithful, intelligent service. 

In 1872-73. while City Hall was being re- 
modelled, the library occupied Pocasset Hall. 
Market Square, and from 1874 to March 19. 
1886. when City Hall was destroyed by 
fire, it occupied the first floor of that build- 



64 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



ing. After the fire it occupied successively 
temporary quarters in Flint's Exchange, 
South Main street, and the Skating Rink on 
Danforth street, where the library was open- 
ed for the distribution of books. For about 
SIX months in ISSG a Reading Room was 
maintained in Waverley Hall, Borden Block. 
In January, 1887, the library and reading 
room was once more regularly opened to 
the public in the large hall in the Brown 
Ruilding, North Main street, where it re- 
mained thirteen years. 

While occupying the quarters in City Hall 
the Trustees eonstantly felt the necessity 
for more improved conditions in order that 
the library might successfully fill all the 
functions of a public library, and in suc- 
cessive reports the matter was urged upon 



Honor, the Mayor, William S. Greene, recom- 
mended that the Mayor be authorized to 
I)€tition the Legislature for authority to cre- 
ate indebtedness outside of the debt limit, 
to be known as the Public Library Loan, for 
the purpose of purchasin,g land and erecting 
a fire-proof building for the use and con- 
venience of the public library. On the same 
day this portion of the address of the Mayor 
was referred by an order of the City Council 
to the Committee on Public Instruction and 
the Trustees of the Public Library, who 
later submitted to the City Council a report 
recommending that authority be given to the 
Mayor to petition the General Court to al- 
low the issue of bonds for this purix)se. 

March 22, 1895, an act was approved by 
the Governor authorizing the City of Fall 




OIJ Re .a.-n , ul Mr:,. M.irv B. Youlif. ■> 

the atlonlion of the City Council, lii Ihoir 
report for 1881 the Trustees particularly 
called attention to the imperative need of 
definite steps being taken in the near future 
to provide more appropriate and more ample 
accommodations for the library. 

When City Hall was destroyed by fire 
March 19, 1S8G, the loss to the library was 
nearly 5,000 books, either burned or dam- 
aged beyond possibility of repair, and in the 
rented quarters occupied after the fire the 
necessity of a permanent fire-proof building 
became more urgent on account of the haz- 
ard of another possible loss from the same 
cause, and year after year the Trustees 
made urgent appeals for the construction of 
a library building. 

The Insistency of the Trustees was finally 
rewarded, when, in his inaugural address 
to the City Council, .lanuary 7, 1S95, His 



■ ! . ,r.-cnt Ml,- of PuH.C Libr.irv 

Kiver to incur indebtedness to an amount 
not exceeding $150,00u beyond the limit fixed 
by law for the purpose of erecting a Public 
Library Building under the power and con- 
trol of the Trustees of the Public Library. 

As soon as the success of the building pro- 
ject was assured, proposals were invited for 
suitable sites and many were suggested, but 
by reason of the generosity and public spirit 
of Miss Sarah S. Brayton in offering 128.75 
rods of the homestead estate of the late Mrs. 
Mary B. Young, taxed by the city at $75,000 
and worth more than $100,000, for the sum 
of $50,000. all others were rejected, as this 
site was deemed most advantageous to the 
city, and it was accepted by a unanimous 
vote of the Trustees. 

Plans were received from IS competitors 
and, after careful consideration of all, fliose 
of Cram, Wentworth & Goodhue, of Boston, 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



65 



were adopted. The first bids for construc- 
tion exceeded the appropriation; all were 
rejected >by the Trustees and new bids were 
called for after certain modifications were 
made in the plans. The lowest bid, $133,300, 
was from W.- L. Rutan of Boston, and' the 
contract was awarded to him on condition 
that he use Fall River granite and give a 
satisfactory bond for the completion of his 
contract. These conditions he complied 
with. This price included the granite 
structure, structural marble, iron work, 
plastering, wood-work and painting, but did 
not include the ornamental marble work, 
decorated ceilings, heating and lighting ap- 
paratus, book-stacks, furniture, curbing and 
tnal gi-ading. 

An additional Public Library Loan 
amounting to $75,000 was authorized by act 
of the General Court and was approved by 
the Governor March 4, 1S96. 

Work was begun in May, 1S9G, and the 
corner-stone was laid on September 30, 189G, 
by Mayor Greene, in the presence of the 
Board of Trustees, members of the City 
Government, and many citizens, but without 
any formalities. 

The architects were represented in the 
construction of the building by their en- 
gineer, Frank W. Ferguson. The Trustees 
appointed as their superintendent of work 
Valentine Mason, whose practical ability and 
experience in that capacity commended him 
for the responsibility. 

In addition to the loans before mentioned, 
an appropriation of $25,000 was made in 
1S9S, and $2,000 in 1S99 to meet any con- 
tingencies, making the total cost of the land, 
building, furnishing, curbing and grading 
$252,000. The entire cost of the building, 
including heating, ventilating, and lighting 
apparatus, was 29 cents per cubic foot, 
which must be considered very reasonable 
for a building of such monumental char- 
acter, and classic, architectural treatment. 

In design, the building is Italian Renais- 
sance, treated in a formal and simple man- 
ner. It is absolutely fireproof in construction, 
and so far as the exterior is concerned, is 
built entirely of dressed Fall River granite. 
The interior partitions are of brick through- 
out, while the fioors are of concrete in the 
Ransom system of construction. The stair- 
ways are of marble, iron, concrete, and 
stone. The roof is of steel filled in with 
terra cotta blocks, and covered with copper 
over a layer of concrete. No woodwork 



enters into the construction of the building 
beyond the doors and window frames. 

The main entrance on North .Main street 
opens into a lofty vestibule, which is finished 
entirely in a white Vermont marble with 
pale green veins. This vestibule, lighted by 
a central skylight, is covered by a dome, 
which rests on ten marble columns rising 
from a stylobate of pink Tennessee marble. 
The floor is covered with elaborate mosaic 
of colored marble. From this vestibule 
steps rise on one side to the Trustees' room, 
on the other to the Librarian's room, while 
in front they lead directly to the delivery 
hall, the central feature of the building, 
which is two stories high, and is Iighte<l by a 
large skylight of rippled silver glass set in 
gilded bronze. The finish of the first stoiy 
of the delivery hall is of pink marble, with 
fhe shafts of the pilasters around the four 
monumental doorways — one in the centre of 
each side — of purple Levanto marble. The 
floor of this hall is of marble mosaic. 

Directly opix)site the entrance from the 
vestibule is the reference library, a spa- 
cious room with an elaborately moulded, 
ceiling supported on four columns of yellow 
Verona marble. 

At the left end of the delivery hall is the 
delivery counter, which communicates direct- 
ly with the book stack. This stack is seven 
stories in height, and provides for the ac- 
commodation of about 325,000 volumes. 
From the delivery department direct access 
is had to the Librarian's room in the front of 
the l)uilding. and the cataloguing room at 
the rear. This latter room communicates 
with the reference library and book stack. 
Opposite the delivery counter is the en- 
trance to the reading room, and also the 
approach to the public stairway. 

The reading room is a large apartment, tlie 
full depth of the building, and of the .same 
size as the book stack — viz.. about 25x75 
feet. It is covered by a semi-circnlar vault, 
and its height is two full stories of the 
building. From this room there is access to 
the trustees' room in front, and to the pub- 
lic catalogue room in the rear, which lies 
between the reading room and reference li- 
brary. On the secontl floor Is a large pic- 
ture gallery and rooms for special libraries. 
There is a .special entrance to the base- 
ment from Elm street which is. at this point, 
a full story below the level of the main floor. 
The entrance ha-s a vaulted ceiling support od 
on columns of black granite. In front a 
staircase rises to the main floor. Op the 



66 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



right is the children's reading room, the 
ceiling of which is supported by columns of 
grey granite, and which communicates di- 
rectly with the children's library, a large 
room filled with bookcases containing over 
7,000 volumes of carefully selected juvenile 
books; this last apartment has ceilings sup- 
ported by columns of red granite. On this 
floor is the general workroom and toilet 
rooms. The sub-basement contains the heat- 
ing and ventilating plant and store rooms. 

It is a matter of great satisfaction that the 
erection of such a public building receive:! 
so generally the approval of the citizens. 
From the day of its inception until its com- 
pletion there was no word of opposition 
worthy of note. It is indeed the people's gift 
to t.ieir own and succeeding generations. All 
the people ai-e alike its benefactors and 
beneficiaries. While building, the trustees 
realized that a less expensive structure 
would have met present needs, but they *"ere 
also convinced that they should build for 
future needs and in an architectural style 
that shall make the structure itself an edu- 
cating power. It was opened to the public 
in March, 1899. 



The first general catalogue was issued in 
ISGl, the second in 1874, the third, a thor- 
ougnly classified one, displacing the others 
in 1882; since then seven supplementary bul- 
letins have been issued. The work is now 
under way of preparing a complete card 
catalogue of the entire library. There are 
now about 75,000 volumes in the librai-y and 
the daily circulation of books for home use 
will average about S.'iO. 

George W. Rankin, the present librarian, 
has been officially connected with the library 
since 1873; he was first engaged as cleri- 
cal assistant in the preparation of the cata- 
logue which was issued in 1874. May 16, 
1S74, he was elected assistant librarian and 
given charge of the catalogue work. In the 
preparation of the classified catalogue of 
1882 he was entrusted with the details of the 
work and also prepare<l many of the notes 
and had entire charge of the final revision 
of the manuscript. He was elected librarian 
December 9, 1905. Mr. Rankin is highly 
esteemed by the citizens of Fall River, and 
the library shows the attention he has be- 
stowed upon it. The ptiblishers are indebted 
to him for the history of the library. 




CHAPTER X 



FIRE AND POLICE 



Sketch of the Beginnings and Development of Two Strong DepartmenU 
of the Municipality 



The city is protected against fire By a 
large and efficient permanent department of 
1(J3 men, assisted by 5G call men, all under 
the direction of Chief Engineer William C. 
Davol, Deputy Chief Joseph Bowers, Jr., and 
Assistant Engineer Edward P. Carey, ft is 
equipped with modern apparatus consisting 
of six steam fire engines, three chemical 
engines, four hook and ladder truclvs and ten 
hose wagons, requiring fifty-eight horses, 
and by prompt and effective action has pre- 
vented any large fire losses except in a few 
unavoidable instances, for many years. The 
use of chemicals and the still alarm system 
nas grown more and more common in recent 
years and has been most satisfactory. The 
municipal appropriations for the department 
have grown with the needs of the city, and 
for 1906 were: Salaries, $117, .500; current 
expenses, $22,000. 

The department was formally established 
by vote of the town in 1S:?2 and was in 
charge of firewards elected annually till 
the adoption of the city charter in 1851. fol- 
lowing which it was under control of the 
-Mayor and City Council till the new city 
charter went into effect in 1903, when a fire 
commission was established, consisting of 
three members appointed by the Mayor and 
approved 'by the Aldermen. One is appointed 
annually for a term of three years. The 
first board consisted of George N. Durfee, 
chairman; G. de Tonnancour, secretary, and 
Edward Lynch. Present board: Michael Mc- 
Nally, chairman; Charles B. Woodman, 
secretary, and Edward Lynch. 

The early tiro department of Fall River,* 
as in every small town, was purely volunteer 
for many years. The first hand fire engine 
was purchased in ISIS and was what is 



*For much of the detail here given the 
editor is indebted to Captain Lynch's excel- 
lent history of the department. 



known as a bucket engine, not capable of 
drawing water from a well, but taking it from 
the tub of the machine, which was filled by 
water brought in buckets by a line of men 
from the source of supply, while others 
manned the brakes and forced the water 
Inrough the hose. There was also a bucket 
carriage, equipped with a large number of 
buckets, to attend the engine, but many of 
the citizens had their own leather buckets 
painted and lettered in an artistic style,' 
which they took to fires on responding to an 
alarm. It was first located on the south 
side of Central street, near Inch, later in 
the rear of the City Hall and afterwards in 
the old town house on Central street. It was 
altered to a draught engine soon aftei- the 
fire of 1843, and remained in service till 
1853, when it was succee<led by Mazoppa 
No. 7. 

In 1826 there was another hand engine 
here, purchased by private subscription, and 
used without hose. The water was poured 
into a tub, from which it was forced by 
a single handle through a goose-neck nozzle 
direct to the fire. It was located near Bed- 
ford and Main streets and was drawn to fires 
by oxen. 

The town purchased another engine, a 
cumbersome affair known as Hydraulion No. 
2. It was first stationed in Stone lane, off 
Central street, and later removed to the 
Niagara house on Pleasant street, recently 
occupied by Mackenzie & Winslow. Cata- 
ract Engine No. 3 was bought in 1813 and 
housed at the corner of Franklin ami Rock 
streets, and Niagara No. 4 the same year and 
placed in the old Niagara house on Pleasant 
•street, until 1853. It was rebuilt in IS.'SS and 
stationed at the corner of North .Main and 
Turner streets, under the new name of Tor- 
rent No. 2. Ocean No. 5 was purchased in 
1846. and stationed on Pearl street; Niagara 
No. 4 and the Massasoit In 1853. The lat- 



HISTORY OF FALL RJVER 



ter was first the property of the Massasolt 
Manufacturing Company and on its purchase 
by the town was named the Mazeppa No. 7. 
It was stationed successively in town house, 
the armory, the Court House building in 
Court Square, and at the corner of South 
Main and Broadway. The last hand fire 
engine was the Cascade, No. 1, belonging 
to the town of Fall River, R. I., which be- 
came the city's property on the anne.xation 
of the town in 1862. It was stationed on 
South Main street and later at the Globe 
Print Works. There were also the Atlantic 
No. G, the property of Hawes & Davol, sta- 
tioned at their machine shops, and the 
Metropolis No. 7 and the Franklin. The first 
was a small affair. 

The first hose reel company organized in 
1843 and located on Rock street. It was fol- 
lowed in 1851 by a four-wheeled hos^ reel 
known as Neptune No. 1, .stationed at the 
Cataract engine house, and in 1863 by the 
first horse hose reel, located in Court Square. 

Prior to 1829 the firemen were in charge 
of ten firewards elected annually, which num- 
ber was increased in that year to twenty. 
The compensation of members of the com- 
panies varied, but was generally the relief 
from poll tax and military duty. They were 
supplemented by several companies organ- 
ized at the various mills and known as 
Forcing Pump Companies. They were 
equipped with hose reels and manned the 
hose connected with the stationary pumps 
at the factories. The members received a 
Slight yearly compensation from the town — 
$3 each in 1839, for example. 

The first steam fire engine belonging to 
the city, known as Quequechan No. 1 was 
bought in 1859 and was replaced by new 
engines in 1871 and again in 1891. The 
company was stationed in Court Square until 
the completion of the Prospect street house 
in 1874. The King Philip No. 2 was bought 
in 1860 and located in Court Square till it 
was removed to the Central en.gino hou.sV in 
1S71. It was succeeded in 1873 by the King 
Philip, Jr., which went out of commission In 
1879. The company was reorganized as a 
hose company, known as Hose 2, In 1880. 

The Metaoomet No. 3 was bought in 1865. 
|)laced in Court Square, and u.sed till 1871. 
wluMi It was replaced by another, whioh was 
IfK'atcd at the Central house and remained 
In service till 1891, when the present No. 3 
was bought. Niagara No. 4 was bought In 
1868, stationed first in the Niagara house on 
Pleasant street and subsequently removed to 



the Plymouth avenue house. It was follow-ed 
by the present No. 4 in 1893. Massasolt No. 
5 was bought in 1873 and quartered at the 
Freedom street house till 1895, when a new 
machine took its place. Anawan No. 6, 
Ijought in 1874, was stationed on North Main 
street till 1S79, when it was dispensed with 
and a hose company organized. Pocasset 
No. 7, al.so bought in 1874, was stationed at 
the Pocasset house till 1895, when it was re- 
placed by the present machine. 

The early hook and ladder trucks were 
diminutive affairs. The first was bought in 
1826, stationed on Pleasant street and drawn 
to fires by hand. A hose truck followed in 
1844, kept in the town house, and another in 
1857, also quartered In the town house; then 
for a time in a livery stable, in 1858 in Court 
Square, and in 1862 in the old armory on 
Bedford street. It remained in service till 
1871, when it was stored in the Ocean 
house and broken up in 1S94. Another, first 
known as Truck No. 1, was bought in 1871 
and was first pulled by hand, then altered for 
one horse. It was stationed first at the Cen- 
tral and then at the Niagara house. 

Another, No. 2, was bought in 1873, located 
on Bedford street and subsequently on Pleas- 
ant, where it was known as No. 4. It went 
out of commission in 1896. It was replaced 
in commission in 1S99, equipped with two 
30-gallon tanks and known as No. 3. It was 
stationed on North Main street and is still 
in service. Another truck. No. 1, the first 
in the State to be equipped for three horses 
abreast, lx)Ught in 1885, was placed at the 
Central house. No. 2, on Bedford street, was 
bought in 1890, and No. 4, stationed in the 
Pocasset house, in 1895. 

A repair shop, located at the Central en- 
gine house, was established in 1895. 

Of the more important engine houses, the 
first was a stone building, still standing, 
on the south side of Pleasant street, be- 
tween Second and Third, and erected by the 
town in 1S3S. It was known as Firemen's 
hall and later as the Niagara house, and was 
sold in 1877. The Cataract house, on Rock 
and Franklin streets, was built In 1843; the 
Ocean house, on Pearl street. In 1845; the 
Court Square house, formerly Cranston 
Almy's livery stable, now the Central police 
.station, was purchased In 1857 and occupied 
by the police and fire departments till the 
firemen removed In 1875. The Central 
house was built In 1870 and enlarged in 
1896, the North Main, Pleasant and Free- 
dom street houses in 1874, the Quequechan 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



<A 



house, in Prospect street, in 1874, and the 
Niagara, on Plymouth avenue, in 1878. 

The Cascade house was erected in 1898, 
to I'epiace an old structure built by the town 
of Tiverton in the 50's. 

The first horse hose reel, bought in 1863, 
and stationed in Court Square, was placed 
in charge of a regular company. No. 2, in 
1880, and stationed at the Central house till 
1882, when it removed to the Cataract 
house, on Rock street, and in Septemiber, 
1884, to the Be<iford street house. In Augu.«i 
of that year it was given the first hose 
wagon owned by the city, which had just 
been purchased. 

Hose Company No. t; was organized in 
1879 and stationed on North Main street, and 
No. S, the Cascade, in 1874. It was supplied 
with a reel till a wagon was bought in 1890. 
The first chemical engine was bought in 
1872 and stationed on Rock street till the 
company disbanded, in March, 1876, and 
machine disposed of. A second engine, now 
known as Chemical No. 1, was secured in 
1893, and placed in the Bedford street house, 
and No. 2 established on Pleasant street in 
1896. Chemical No. 3, bought in 1896, was 
first stationed at Hose No. G house; after- 
ward removed to the Central engine house 
on Pocasset street. 

The beginning of a permanent department 
was made in 18G0, when Clark Whipple was 
appointed driver oi steamer No. 1, on 
Court Square. His sleeping quarters were 
over the old city stables, and on an alarm 
it was his duty to take the two horses, used 
by the highway department during the day. 
drive to the engine house for the engine and 
then proceed to the fire. He received $66 a 
month. Two more drivers, Nathan Chace 
and Philander Curry, were appointed in 1865. 
and shared Whipple's quarters, taking turns 
at highway work with their teams. Eight 
.years later the three drivers and their 
horses were placed permanently on dufy at 
the engine house. Permanent engineers were 
appointed in 1874 and a captain and a hose- 
man in 1SS6. In 1894 the captains of all 
companies were made permanent. The 
Gamewell fire alarm telegraph system was 
established on .January 7, 1870, to succeed 
the old method of bell ringing. The first 
alarm was given from box 16 on January 27. 
The chief engineers since the adoption of 
the first city charter have been: 1854, Asa 
Eames; 1855-56. .lonathan E. Morrill; 
1 857. Chester W. Greene; IS.'SS-iig. 3. E. 
Morrill; 1860-69, Southard H. Miller; 1870- 



72, Thomas J. Borden; 1873-74, Holder B. 
Durfee; 1875, Thomas Connell; 1S76-8L 
William C. Davol; 1882-83, John A. Mac- 
farlane; 1884-1898, William C. Davol; 1898- 
1901, James Langford; 1901 to the present 
time, William C. Davol. 

Aside from the fire of 1843, which has 
been elsewhere noted, the worst fire in the 
city's history wa.s the Granite mill horror on 
the morning of September 19, 1874, when 20 
lives were lost and 30 persons injured. The 
flames were discovered in the mule room on 
the third floor at ten minutes before seven, 
and spread so rapidly that escape through 
the only entrance, a tower in the centre of 
the mfU on the Twelfth street side, was 
cut off, and though many reached safety by 
the fire escapes or suffered only minor in- 
juries by jumping, those on the sixth floor 
under the bam roof had no escape except by 
jumping, as there were no fire escapes that 
reached them and the department's longest 
ladder was too short. Many jumped to al- 
most certain death and others perished in 
the mill. The pecuniary loss was $247,000. 
fully insured. 

Other notable mill fires were the Massa- 
soit, November 2, 1872; the American Linen, 
June 29, 1876; the Border City No. 1, No- 
vember 2, 1877; Chace's thread mill, Novem- 
ber 29, 1878; the Flint mill, October 28, 
1882; the Sagamore, April 24, 1884; the 
Globe Print Works, December 5, 1867, and 
the American Print Works, December 15, 
1867. 

The steamer Empire State, of the New 
York line, was burned at her dock here on 
the evening of January 13, 1849, but was 
rebuilt, and on July 25, 1S5G. when off 
Point Judith, suffered a boiler explosion 
which caused at least fourteen deaths. She 
returned to this city, where the wounded 
were cared for, and was destroyed by fire at 
Bristol May 14, 1887. 

The burning of the Micah Ruggles house, 
which stood where the County Court House 
now is, on the night of January 24, 1S57, was 
attended by the fatal injury of three men— 
Gibbs Earle, William H. Buflinton and 
Miles Daley, who were struck by a falling 
chimney. Ma.vor Bufflnton was injured by 
the falling debris, but only slightly. It is 
recorded that at this fire three barrels of 
cider, found on an upper floor, were used 
as an extinguisher, "with most gratifying re- 
sults, albeit with genuine regret." 

Alphonso Borden, a member of the de- 
partment, was killed while responding to an 



70 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



alarm with the Cataract engine, November 
15, 1SG4, !)}• being run over by the machine 
while it was descending Elm street. He 
was on the tongue and had been left alone to 
guide the engine after it had attained so 
much speed that the other members of the 
company were obliged to abandon their ef- 
forts to check it. In a somewhat similar ac- 
cident Timothy Dwyer, a temporary driver 
in charge of Truck 1, while the regular man 
was at supper, received fatal injuries while 
descending French's hill in response to an 
alarm December 12, 1895. The horses got be- 
yond control on -the icy hill, and in attempt- 
ing to avoid an electric car at the foot the 
truck collided with a telegraph pole, throw- 
ing Dwyer to the frozen ground. 

H. J. I^angley's loom harness factory, on 
County street, lock fire following a boiler ex- 
plosion, which killed four persons, .June 14, 
1.S95, and was destroyed. 

The Firemen's Relief Association, known 
for a brief period as the Firemen's Burial 
Society, was formed in 1883, and incor- 
porated under the State law June 12, 1892. 
'I'he first president was .Joseph Bowers; Sec- 
retary, Albert J. Pember; Treasurer, .James 
Sutcliffe. The fund is about $13,000. Present 
officers: W. C. Da vol, president; Joseph 
Bowers, Jr., .secretary; James Sutcliffe, 
treasurer; Board of Trustees, Daniel Shay. 
-Michael Sweeney and Michael Powers. 

The Firemen's Memorial Sunday, the sec- 
ond Sunday in June, has been observed since 
189:!. 

Two veteran firemen's associations have 
been formed, the Fall River in 1890 and the 
Defiance in 1900. Musters were held here 
in 1878 and 1899. 

The police department is first mentioned 
in 1835, when, on April 13, it was voted 
that the town authorize an application to the 
justices of the peace and the selectmen to 
establish a night waloh. but it was not until 
.July, 1811, that such a force was established, 
consisting of six men. In April, 181C, it was 
voted that the watchmen should keep the 
engine houses in i-epair and maintain houses 
m them, and in April, 1818, a room was 
fitted up for the use of the officers in the 
west end of the market. The expendlfures 
ot the department In 1845. lS4fi and 1S47 
were $2,400 a year, reduced in 1848 to $2,000 
and in 1849 to $1,500, around which they re- 
mained till 1853, when they had increased 
to $2,700. 

Willi the incoming of the city government 



in 1854 a police department was formally 
established, with William Sisson, chief con- 
stable, and Daniel Child, Bowen L. Pierce, 
hidson V. Chace, Philip Durfee, James E. 
Watson, Spencer Macomber and Samuel V. 
Bliffins, assistants. The night police con- 
sisted of Jeremiah Clarke, captain, and hbel 
Segur, Benoni T. Chace, Job Simmons, newis 
W. Carpenter, Jacob B. Dunham. Nicholas 
Taylor, and Gardner Moi-se. By order of the 
City Council July 13, 1857, the title of chief 
constable was changed to City Marshal. The 
pay of chief constable was at first $1.50 a 
day, later advanced to $1.75 and in 1858 
made $G00 a year. Various changes were 
made, until, by July 2, 18G7, it had reached 
$1,000 a year. His assistants had at first 
$1.25 and the captain of the watch $1.83. The 
ordinary men in 1855 received $1.50, a figure 
frequently changed and falling to $1.^5 in 
1859 and by 1872 advanced to $2.50. By this 
time the force had grown to 28 men, 22 of 
whom were on night duty. Eighteen men 
were added during 1873, and the following 
year a further increase was made, bringing 
the number up to 70. A reorganization went 
into effect July 1, 1874, by which the city 
was divided into four districts instead of 
one, quarters at the north, east and south 
occupied, and the schedule so arranged as to 
prevent leaving three hours without any 
patrol, as had been formerly the case. 

The occupying of the three auxiliary sta- 
tions greatly relieved the crowded condition 
of the Central station. In the early days, 
before the establishment of a regular depart- 
ment, cells were provided in the town house, 
and after the erection of the City Hall in the 
basement of that structure. Removal to the 
present central station was made soon after 
its purchase by the city in 1857. The build- 
ing had been erected soon after the great 
fire for the stable of the Richardson house, 
and was occupied as a livery stable by 
Cranston Almy. Kirby and others till it~ be- 
came city property. The west end was 
then occupied by the highway department 
for its stable, with hay lofts where the court 
room now is. The police occupied the east 
end of the building, with six cells in the 
basement and the cotirt room on the sec- 
ond floor, while fire apiiaralus was stored in 
the present guard room. After the removal 
of the fire engines In 1875 and the city barn 
in 1879. the building was remodelled, and 
further changes were made after the police 
comml.ssion was established, when the build- 
ing on the north side of Granite street was 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



71 



erected for the patrol wagon and sleeping 
quarters for the men. 

Previous to March 5, 1883, when the tenure 
of office bill went into effect, the men had 
Ijeen appointed each year. The patrol wagon 
s.vstem went into effect in 1890, and the first 
call was answered January 12. The bo.x 
system was established at this time. The 
only man to be retired on a pension was 
George Dougherty, a patrolman, with eight 
years' service, who had been injured in the 
line of duty and was pensioned on one-half 
pay — $1.31 a day^May 21, 1901. He died 
in March of the following year. 

A radical change in the control of the de- 
partment took place in 1894, when at the 
solicitation of a number of local citizens the 
Legislature passed an act, approved May 7. 
by which the ixjlice and the liquor license 
power were taken from the city and given to 
a commission of three legal voters ap- 



iwinted by the Governor. The first board 
consisted of 1 homas J. Rorden, Joseph 
Healy and .lohn Stanton. Mr. Borden was 
chairman until the expiration of his term, 
and Messrs. Healy and Stanton were com- 
missioners until 1901. Bradford D. Davol 
was chairman of the Iward from 1897 to 1903, 
Rufus W. Bassett from 1903 to 1905, and 
James Tansey, the present head of the com- 
mission, has held that office since his ap- 
pointment in 1905. Mr. Bassett had suc- 
ceeded Mr. Healy on his death in 19or. The 
present board consists of James Tansey, 
William Moran, who has been a member 
since 1901, and James M. Morton, Jr., a 
commissioner since 1903. 

The last annual report shows 13G men 
and two matrons in the department. Sev- 
enty-six signal boxes were in use, with three 
horses and two wagons. The total expendi- 
tures in 1905 were $HG,9C5.70. 




The Old David Anthony Houic. formerly .it the corner ol Nnrtl, M,,,n .md Pino Sli 



CHAPTER XI 



THE CITY'S INDUSTRIES 



This the Greatest Center ol Cotton Manufacturing. Its Rapid Growth. 
The Various Corporations. Other Industries 



The industries of Fall River are largely 
centred about the manufacture of cotton, by 
far the principal occupation here, and tiie 
one that has contributed most to the up- 
building of the city and the making of it the 
largest cotton manufacturing community in 
the New World. The early mills produced 
coarse goods, but with the passing of years 
the tendency has been toward finer weaves, 
and cotton goods are now produced here in a 
wide variety, from shoe linings to the finest 
lawns — coarse goods, fine goods, twills, 
sateens, curtains, quilts, ginghams, thread. 
twine, whatever the trade calls for. Print 
works, bleacheries and machine shops have 
naturally accompanied the building of the 
mills, and in recent years a large hat making 
industry has sprung up. Numerous smaller 
businesses have made a start here and prom- 
ise in time to develoj) to considerable pro- 
portions. 

The first of the mills for cotton to be 
erected here was a small building at the 
northeast corner of Globe and South Main 
streets, in 1811, in what was then Rhode 
I-sland territory. It was started by Colonel 
.Joseph Durfee aiid a few others and was 
operated until 1829, but apparently with lit- 
tle success on account of unfaniilarity with 
the business. Here, as in the Troy and Fall 
River manufactories, constructed soon after, 
probably little but spinning was done in the 
mill, as the cotton appears to have been dis- 
tributed to the housewives to be picked by 
hand, and after being spun in the factory, 
rt-lurnod to them for weaving. 

The real beginning of the industry here 
was In 1813, when two companies were 
formed for the manufacture of cotton, the 
Troy Cotton & W<x)len Manufactory and the 
Fall River Manufactory, hea.ded by Oliver 
Chace and David Anthony, respectively, both 
of whom had had experience in the business 
in mills lu other New England towns. The 



Troy had a capital of $,5U,(iU0 and the Fall 
River .Manufactory $lti,ooii, about half of 
which in each case was subscribed in lieigh- 
l)oring towns. Both mills were erected across 
the stream of the Fall River, the outlet of the 
Watuppa ponds, which has a fall of 127 feet 
in less than half a mile, and furnished abun- 
dant watei power. The Fall River miil, fin- 
ished in October, 1813, was G(ix4U feet, the 
lower story of stone and the two upper of 
wood, because, as it was a.sserted with genu- 
ine Yankee humor, "there was not enough 
stone in Fall River to finish it with." It was 
designed for 1,500 spindles and stood about 
where the present mill of the same name, 
now owned by the Pocasset Manufacturing 
company, is located. The Troy mill was 
built across the stream where the present 
factory of the corporation is, from stone 
gathered in the adjoining fields, of fouc 
stories, 108x37, and began operation in 
March, 181-4, with 2.000 spindles. Power 
weaving was introduced in the Fall River 
Manufactory in 1N17 and in the Troy in 
1820. 

These mills had been started during the 
war of 1812, when the markets were closed 
t*) foreign spinners, but on the conclusion 
of peace soon after, this bar was taken away, 
and it was not till 1820 that the Troy paid 
its first dividend — $25 a share. At least one 
of the later dividemls was paid in cloth. 
Prosperity came, and during the next ten 
years the Pocasset Manufacturing Company, 
the Anawan and Massasoit Mills, Rolieson's 
Print Works and the Fall Rivcir Iron Works 
were inaugurated, followed by the .\merican 
Print Works, Chace's thread mill, the Eagle 
mill and, in 1S4C. the Metacomet, erected by 
the Iron Works and regarded then as an 
enormous plant. The American Linen was 
built in 1852. Up to this time all the mills 
had been erected and controlled by a siiiall 
group of men, with the Influence of the Iron 



74 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Works interests very strong. The profits 
had been extremely large: in the case of the 
Metaeomei they are said to have paid the 
cost of the mill in a single year, and in 1859 
new interosts entered the field, headed by 
Halo Remington and the veteran David 
Anthony, and formed the Union Mills Com- 
I)any, with the assistance of numerous small 
investors. The success of the corporation 
was immediate and gratifying, and led to the 
building of the Granite mills in 1.SG3, the 
Durfee and Tecumseh in ISGG, and within 
fitli-en ytars the starting of 25 distinct manu- 
facturing corporations. Eleven mills were 
started in a single year, 1872, and the num- 
ber of spindles jumper, from 117,030 in 1854 
to 1,258,508 in 1874. Capital flowed in from 
other cities, big dividends were paid and the 
l)usiness boomed. 

Since this period the mill-building has 
gone on steadily, though not with such rapid- 
ity as in the early seventies. The tendency 
has been rather for the enlargement of exist- 
ing plants than the forming of new corpora- 
tions, though numbers of these have been 
organized. Old mills have been equipped for 
the making of finer goods and the new ones 
erected have in recent years been entirely 
for the production of better cloths than 
prints, following the success of the King 
Philip and Granite mills in making that 
quality of goods. 

There has been, too, a tendency towar.i 
consolidation, in the purchase of weaker 
plants by stronger ones and in the election 
of the successful treasurer of one mill to a 
similar position in another, while still re- 
taining his former duties. In the summer 
of 1899 a considerable stir was caused by the 
receipt by nearly every mill in this city, from 
a New York firm, of circular letters stating 
that financial houses of unquestioned stand- 
ing, represented by them, had considered the 
situation of the cotton industry here, and 
believing that its interests would best be 
served by consolidation, offered for a con- 
trol of the stock of each mill figures con- 
siderably higher than the selling prices at 
the time. The matter was not favorably re- 
ceived by stockholders and was dropped. 

In 1898 a system of syndicate selling of 
goods was Inaugurated, October 22, by which 
the mills pooled their product in the hands 
of two treasurers, Frank \V. Bright man and 
C. C. Rotinseville as trustees. The latter, 
with the aid of an advisory Iward, sold the 
clotli from time to time and returned the 
proiwrtional receipts lo the corporation*!. 



While the plan appeared feasible, difficulties 
were encountered in prosecuting it, and it 
was discontinued August 3, 1901. The trus- 
tees at first controIle<l only four gradfes of 
standan' narrow goods, but this was later 
extended to cover all under 33 inches in 
width. The first committee consisted of the 
two trustees named. Thomas E. Brayton, 
E<lward L. Anthony, .loseph A. Baker, Fred 
E. Waterman and James E. Osborn. Mr. 
Brightman rttired as trustee after a time 
and was succeeded by Joseph A. Baker, and 
the committee was enlarged by the addition 
of Charles M. Shove and David A. Brayton, 
Jr. Mr. Baker later retired and was suc- 
ceeded as trustee by James E. Osborn. Na- 
thaniel B. Borden was selecte<l lo take his 
place on the advisory board. 

The mills have suffered at times from tlie 
new Southern competition, and while this 
has caused some uneasiness, that feeling has 
generally passed, and it is believed that the 
Fall River mills, now reasonably prosperous, 
will be able to hold their own against the 
newer factories of the South, despite some of 
their admitted advantages. The lesson of 
the necessity of the best of modern ma- 
chinery, of liberal allowance for deprecia- 
tion and of competent management, has been 
learned and will not be forgotten. The im- 
provement in machinery has been so rapid 
iliat present equipment is no longer allowed 
lo wear out, and is discarded to make way 
lor new to meet comi)etition. 

The early operatives here were almost 
entirely of American 1)irth, and their hours 
long — from daylight to dark — 7:30 in the 
winter, with a half hour allowed for break- 
fast at S A. M., and the same period for 
dinner at noon. Before 1850 the English. 
Irish and Scotch began to come here, and 
after the Civil War the French entered 
the mills in large numbers. Now the races 
of Southern Europe, notably the Portuguese, 
are taking the places of earlier comers, who 
have entered more congenial and better paid 
work. The hours of labor have been short- 
ened to 58, working conditions have im- 
proved, tiie 'Saturday half-holiday and week- 
ly payments granted, child labor prohibited 
or placed under severe restrictions and fhe 
c<u-poratlon store and tenement have passed. 
The conditions under which the operatives 
work to-day are not enviable, but they are 
far belter than they were a score of years 
ago. 

The city now has 40 cotton manufactur- 
ing corporations, with a total capital of ap- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



7o 



proximately 125,500,000, and factories repre- 
senting an investment of nearly twice that 
sum, Willi 3,300,000 spindles and 83,000 
looms, giving employment to 32,500 hands 
producing more than 1,500 miles of cloth 
every working day, as well as a large 
amount of yarns, thread, quilts and various 
other cotton products. 

The principal facts in regard to each of 
the larger corporations, as well as some that 
have suspended or been merged in others 
appear below: 

The Pall River Iron Works, now an im- 
mense cotton manufacturing plant, giving 
employment to 4,500 hands, has been inti- 
mately associated with the progress of the 
city and has played an important part in 
Its development. It had its inception in 
^ 1S21 in a small shipbuilding business car- 
ried on near the site of the Metacomet mill 
by Bradford Durfee, a shipwright, and Rich- 
ard Borden, the owner of a grist mill nearbv 
The need of iron work for the vessels and 
also the demand for spikes, bars, rods and 
other iron articles for constructive purposes 
suggested the starting of shops for their 
manufacture, and a company was formed 
l).v Richard Borden, Bradford Durfee. Holder 
Borden, David Anthony, William Valentine 
Joseph Butler and Abram and Isaac Wilkin- 
son, the last four of Providence. The origi- 
nal capital was $24,000, but this was soon 
after reduced by the withdrawal of the 
Wilkinsons to $18,000. 

The first shops were on the land now oc- 
cupied by the Iron Works No. 6, formerly 
the Metacomet mill, and produced hoop iron 
for the New Bedford oil trade. Nail and 
rolling mills were also erected and enlarged 
from time to time, as the business rapidly 
developed. By 1S7G the company was em- 
ploying GOO hands. It had meantime 
branched out into other lines, and had been 
transferred to the present location of the 
main mills of the company. It had been the 
principal promoter of the Anawan mill in 
1825, the Providence line of steamboats com- 
mencing with the Hancock in 1827, foriowerl 
l).v the King Philip in 1832. Bradford Durfee 
in 1845, Richard Borden in 1874. Canonicus 
and Metacomet; the Fall River Line to New- 
York in 1847. the gas works and the rail- 
road to Myricks. about the same time, and 
the Metacomet mill. 

The company had been incorporated in 
1S25, with a capital of $200,000. increased in 
1845 to $900,000. though not a dollar had 
been paid in except for the original invest- 



ment of $18,000. No dividends in cash were 
paid until 1850, but between that time and 
1880 the stockholders received $3 073 000 
besides stock in the Fall River Manufactory' 
the Troy Cotton & Woolen Co., the American 
Print Works and the Bay State Steamboat 
Co. In 1880 it was thought advisable to di- 
vide the property and form new corpora- 
tions, the Metacomet mill, with $288,000 
capital, the Fall River Machine Co., $9G,000- 
Fall River Gas Works Co., $288.000, ' and 
Fall River Steamboat Co., $l'92,000. For 
each share in the old companies three were 
given in the Metacomet, three in Gas Co., 
one in the Machine Co., and two in the 
Steamboat Co. This left the old company 
a large amount of real estate and valuable 
wharf property, with buildings. Richard 
Borden was clerk, treasurer and agent from 
1828 to 1874, when he was succeeded by 
Philip D. Borden, and one year later bv Rob- 
ert C. Brown. 

Soon after the division of the property 
the manufacture of iron was discontinued 
on account of underselling by plants near 
the mines, and M. C. D. Borden, who had 
become the sole owner of the American 
Printing Co. in 18SG, shortly after that time 
also purchased the Iron Works Co.. which 
had a valuable water front adjoining the 
print works. He razed the old buildings, 
and in 1889 began the construction of a 
vast cotton manufacturing plant to supply 
cloth for printing. The first mill was. like 
those subsequently erected, of brick, and 
was 380x120 feet, four stories in height, 
with a towering chimney 359 feet above the 
ground, the highest in the ITnited States at 
the time. A second mill was buili in 1892. 
three stories high. 575x120, and the follow- 
ing year No. 3, four stories, 309x142. No. 4. 
372%xlG5V4. was erected in 1895. and its 
starting on Oct. 17 was made the occasion 
of a notable dinner of New York and Fall 
River men on the steamer Priscilla. at which 
Mr. Borden announced a gift of $100.iiii(i to 
the charities of the city. No. 5 mill was 
built in 1902, and is 105x372 feet, with an 
ell 30x40. Since 1900 the property has been 
further increased by the purchase of the 
Fall River Machine Co.. on which large 
storehouses were erected, and the Meta- 
comet and Anawan mills. The former was 
enlarged and improved as No, G mill, and 
the old Anawan, which had been idle for 
some years and used as a storehouse, was 
torn down to make way for No. 7 mill. 142x 
310. three stories in height at the south end 



76 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



and four at the north. This mill gives the 
entire plant 459,000 spindles, with 13,057 
looms, employing 4,500 hands and produc- 
ing 200,000,000 yards of cloth every year, 
and using 80,000 bales of cotton. M. C. D. 
Borden, the owner, is president, his son, 
Howard S. Borden, treasurer, and M. C. D. 
Borden, Howard S. and Bertram H. Borden, 
(another son) directors. Samuel E. Hatha- 
way is superintendent. 

The American Printing Company, with 
which the Iron Works are closely allied, was 
established as the American Print Works in 
18P.4, by Holder Borden, with whom were 
as.sociated most of the stockholders of Ihe 
Iron Works, in buildings erected for its Use 
by that corporation. It began operations in 
January, 1835, with four machines and a 
capacity of 2.000 pieces a week. Additions 
made from time to time increased this to 
9.000 in 1S54, and in 1S57 a corporation was 
formed and the land and buildings, which 
had formerly been leased from the Iron 
Works, were purchased. New buildings 
were erected in 18G7, but burned Dec. 15 of 
that year, with a large uninsured loss, to 
which were added the severe damage by 
fire at the Bay State Print Works then 
owned and operated by the company, a few 
days iwevious. The plant was at once re- 
built, but the heavy fire loss so burdened 
the corporation that in 1S79 it was forced 
to suspend, and in 1880 a new coriwration 
was formed under the present name, with a 
capital of $300,000, which has since been in- 
creased to $750,000. The plant now has 30 
printing machines, with a weekly capacity 
of 100.000 pieces, of the celebrated American 
prints. 

Holder Borden, the first manager of the 
piant, held office till 1837. Jefferson Borden, 
who succeeded him, held the position from 
that time until 1S7G, when Thomas J. Borden 
was elected agent. M. C. D. Borden, who 
directed the New York end of the business 
for the disposal of the product, acquired 
Thomas J. Borden's Interest in 1880, and has 
since been the sole owner. He is president 
of the corporation, with B. H. Borden, treas- 
urer, and M. C. D. Borden. B. H. Borden and 
H. S. Borden directors. James B. Harloy 
v/as superintendent for many years until his 
death, when he was succeeded by his son. 
Harry B. Harley, who still holds that posi- 
tion. 

The Fall River Manufactory was organiz- 
ed in March, 1813, with a capital of $40,000 
by David Anthony, Dexter Wheeler and 



Abraham Bowen, and erected a three-story 
mill, 00x40. It was incorporated with $150,- 
000 capital in 1820, and in 1827 built what 
was known as the "Nankeen Mill," which 
was operated by Azariah and Jarvis Shove 
in making nankeen cloth. This was de- 
molished as well as the first structure, 
known as "the old yellow mill," in 1839, to 
make room for "the white mill." This was 
burned in ISGS and the following year the 
present five-story granite structure, 275x74, 
was erected, extended in 1891, to increase 
its capacity to 41,000 spindles. In 1897 the 
capital was reduced from $150,000 to $30,000 
and increased to $240,000. The property 
was acquired by the Pocasset Mfg. Co. in 
1905. Dexter Wheeler was president of the 
company 1813-24; William Mason, ]S24-o2: 
.lason H. Archer, 1832-33; William H. Mason. 
1.833-59; Richard Borden, 1S59-G2; David An- 
thony, 1SG2-G3; Richard Borden, 18G3-GG; 
Nathan Durfee, 18GG-74; John S. Brayton, 
J 874-1904. The treasurers have been David 
Anthony, Holder Borden, Bradford Durfee, 
S. A. Chace. Andrew Borden, Thomas S. 
Borden and \V. Frank Shove. 

The Troy Cotton & Woolen Manufactory 
was organized as the Troy Mfg. Co. in 
A.arch, 1813, largely through the efforts of 
Oliver Chace, Nathaniel Wheeler and Eber 
blade, with a capital of $50,000, in shares of 
$500 each, the present par value. Oliver 
Chace w-as elected agent, and James Max- 
well, Sheffield Weaver, Nathaniel Weaver. 
Benjamin Slade and Jonathan Brown a 
' standing committee." In 1814, a charter 
was obtained, the name changed to the pres- 
ent title of the corporation and the capital 
increased to $GG.0O0. It was reorganized in 
1SG2. and the capital raised to $300,000, the 
present figure. The first mill stood across 
the stream where the present factory now 
is. and was of stone, 108x37, four stories in 
height. It began operation in March, 1814, 
with 2,000 spindles. The mill was burned 
in 1821, and rebuilt in 1823. A three-story 
addition, of stone, 75x47. was made in 1843. 
and ten years later extended 80 feet and 
made two stories higher. In 18G0 the 1823 
mill was removed and the present north end 
of the factory built, 29Gx70. five stories. The 
plant has 14.400 mule and 31.9GS frame 
spindles, and 1,059 looms, all of which are 
more than 32 inches In width. It employs 
400 hands and produces 5.000 pieces weekly. 
The Iroasurers have been Eber Slade. 1813- 
24; Harvey Cha<>e, 1S24-43; Stephen Da vol, 
1843-GO; Thomas J. Borden, 18G0-7G; Richard 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



77 



B. Borden, 1876 to date. No presidents were 
elected under the original corporation; since 
1SG2 they have been Richard Borden, Jeffer- 
son Borden, John S. Brayton and the latter's 
son of the same name. The directors are 
John S. Brayton, Richard B. Borden, Brad- 
ford D. Davol and Oliver S. Hawes. The 
superintendent is William E. Sharpies. 

The Pocasset Mfg. Co. was organized in 
1S22 with a capital of $100,000 and acquired 
the land just west of Main street, including 
the falls. Samuel Rodman of New Bedford 
was the principal owner. The company 
voted first to erect a grist mill, but changed 
its plans and built "what was called "The 
Bridge Mill" on the north side of the stream 
near Main street, after tearing down the 
old grist mill that stood on the spot. One 
thousand spindles were placed in the south 
half of the new structure and the north half 
leased to D. & D. Buffinton for the manu- 
facture of warp and batting. This mill, 
which was of stone, three stories high, 40x 
100, ran north and south, with a long ell 
over the river, and it was here that the first 
print cloths were made, % yd. wide, and 
44 picks to the square inch. It was burned 
in 1843, together with the old fulling mill, 
which stood farther south, and the company 
shortly after erected the present Granite 
block on the site, sold a few years ago. A 
year or two later it erected a part of its 
present factory, 219x75, and five stories in 
height, the first large mill to be constructed 
here and notable for its width as well as its 
length. It commenced running in 1847. 
This plant has been enlarged from time to 
time, most recently by the purchase of the 
Fall River Manufactory. Oliver Chace, the 
first agent of the company, served until his 
death in 1837, and was succeeded by Micah 
H. Ruggles, 1837-57. Stephen Davol follow- 
ed Mr. Ruggles as treasurer and agent from 
iS5S to 1S73, when the office was divided and 
Mr. Davol became agent, with Bradford 
Davol treasurer. The latter remained in of- 
fice till 1891, when he was succeeded by W. 
Prank Shove, the present treasurer. Henry 
b. Howe. Theophihis Parsons and William 
S. Whitney were agents, succeeding Stephen 
Davol. Thomas E. Brayton has been presi- 
dent since 1S91, having succeeded Stephen 
Davol and Horatio Hathaway. The capital 
has gone through various changes. It was 
reduceil in 1888 from $1,160,000 to $800,000, 
and in 1S93 to $600,000, the present figure, 
by the payment of $200,000 to the stock- 
holders. The corporation now operates 



114,208 frame spindles, and 2,912 looms, of 
which 1,862 are for wide goods. The direc- 
tors are Samuel W. Rodman, B. R. Weld, 
George S. Davol, Joseph F. Knowles, Thomas 
S. Hathaway, B. D. Davol, Thomas E. Bray- 
ton, Edward L. Anthony, and W. Frank 
Shove. Thomas Connors is superintendent. 

Early in its history the company built a 
number of stone structures to rent for small 
manufactories. In one of these, erected in 
1825 and known as the Satinet factory, the 
business of Robeson's print works was first 
carried on, while the south part was occu- 
pied first by Samuel Shove & Co., and later 
by John and Jesse Eddy, the successors of 
this firm, in which they had been partners, 
for the manufacture of woolens, a business 
that gave the mill its name. It was built 
of heavy granite, with the north end on the 
stream and the south on Pocasset street, 
and was three stories in height on the east 
side. It was torn down to make room for 
the present Pocasset mill, and the Eddys 
removed to the Eagle mill in Tiverton, where 
the business was carried on several years 
till the factory was burned. The firm had 
been dissolved some time before, and Jesse 
Eddy in company with Joseph Durfee erect- 
ed the Wamsutta mills. Mr. Durfee died 
before manufacturing began and it was car- 
ried on successively by Jesse Eddy, "Jesse 
Eddy & Co, and Jesse Eddy's Sons (Thomas 
i. and .Tames C.) till a few years ago. 

The "New Pocasset" was built in 1826, on 
the site of the Quequechan mill, and leased 
to A. & J. Shove and Chase & Luther, for 
cotton manufacturing. 

The small mill now run by the Pocasset 
at the west side of its main plant was built 
in 1827 and known first as the Massasoit and 
later as the Watuppa mill. It was so large 
for its time that it was not thought one firm 
would wish to take all so a partition was 
built and two wheelpits put in. It was 
leased by Brown & Ives of Providence for 
cotton manufacture, but they soon became 
dissatisfied with the water power and pro- 
posed removing the machinery to Lonsdale. 
Holder Borden bought out their interest and 
continued the mill on his own account It 
was notable as the first mill In this vicinity 
in which power was distril)uted by bolts in- 
stead of gears. In 1843. when the lease had 
about expired, the Massasoit mill on Davol 
street was erected and the machinery trans- 
ferred. This last was better known as "the 
Doctor's mill," i)ecause in later years largely 
owned and run by Dr. Nathan Durfee. It 



78 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



had a capital of |120,0u0, afterwards in- 
creased to $200,000, and in 1870 contained 
14,448 spindles and 354 looms. It was 
burned Nov. 2, 1875, and was not rebuilt. 
1 he site, as well as that of the Massasoit 
tloui- mill, formerly Chase, Nason & Durfeu. 
is now occupied by the Massasoit Mfg. Co. 
The old mill on Pocasset street was operated 
for a time as a cotton mill under the agency 
of Linden Cook, by a corporation known 
as the Wahtahpee mills (the old spelling of 
Watuppa) and eventually became a part of 
the Pocasset Company. 

The Quequechan mill, also erected by the 
parent company, was a part of Robeson's 
Fall River Print Works until 1859, when 
G.OOO spindles were placed in it and cotton 
manufacture begun. The capacity was 
gradually increased to 12,800 in 1867. After 
the failure of the print works the mill was 
operated for the creditors with Andrew 
Robeson, third, manager, until 1879, when a 
corijoration called the Quequechan mills 
was organized with Mr. Robeson treasurer. 
He resigned in 18S1 and was succeeded by 
D. H. Dyer. The business proved iinprofit- 
able and after a time the mill was sold and 
devoted to other purposes. 

The Anawan Manufactory, which stood 
over the stream, where the Fall River Iron 
Works No. 7 mill now is, was erected by the 
Iron Works interests in 1825, though as a 
separate cori)oration. It was a large factory 
in its day, with 10,000 spindles, and was 
notable for the hammered granite blocks 
used in its lower stories, which were uti- 
lized in the building of the new mill when 
the old was razed in 1905. I..ikR the Meia- 
comet it was run by the Iron Works under 
the direction of Major Bradford Durfee, 
Foster Stafford and Richard B. Borden, until 
the division of the property in 1880. 
Thomas S. Borden and W. Frank Shove 
have been recent treasurers of the corpora- 
tions, with Jefferson Borden and John S. 
Brayton, presidents. The Anawan discon- 
tinued operations in the late 90's. 

The Wampanoag mills were organized in 
1S71, with Robert T. Davis, president: 
Walter C. Durfee, treasurer: and R. T. 
Davis, W. C. Durfee, John D. Flint, Stephen 
Davol, Foster A. Stafford, Simeon Borden, 
George H. Eddy, Alphonso S. Covel, Lloyd 
S. Earle, William II. Jennings and John H. 
Boone directors. The first mill was of 
granite, 298x71, five stories high, with 28,000 
spindles. Number 2, also of granlle, five 
stories high, 328x74, was erected in 1S77. and 



a weave shed, 215x96, two stories in height, 
built in 1887. The original capital of $400,- 
000 was increased to $500,000 in 1877 and to 
$750,000 in 1887. The plant now has 14,852 
mule and 70,33G frame spindles, and 2,215 
looms, of which 1,547 are more than 32 inch- 
es wide. Ii has a weekly production of 12,- 
000 pieces. Mr. Davis is still president. 
Walter C. Durfee was treasurer till 1891, 
when he was succeeded by Effingham C. 
Haight, followed by William Evans in 1901 
and by W. Frank Shove in 1905. The direc- 
tors are Robert T. Davis, John D. Flint, Geo. 
H. Eddy, Franklin L. Almy, John H. Boone, 
Wm. H. Jennings, Robert C. Davis and W. 
F. Shove. Jas. O. Thompson, Jr., is super- 
intendent. 

The Stafford mills were organized in 1871, 
with a capita! of $550,000, increased in 1888 
to $800,000 and In 189G to $1,000,000. Foster 
H. Stafford was the first president and 
agent, with Shubael P. Ix)vell treasurer and 
F. H. Stafford, Samuel Hathaway, Charles P. 
Stickney, Robert T. Davis, William C. Davol, 
William L. Slade, Danforth Horton, Ed- 
mund Chase and Weaver Osborn directors. 
The first mill was of five stories, granite, 
374x70. and was followed in 1886 by a sec- 
ond of the same material and dimensions. 
A weave shod, 173x160, was erected in 1900. 
The plant has 100,576 frame spindles and 
2,617 looms, of which 791 are more than 32 
inches wide. It employs 825 hands and has 
a weekly production of 14,000 pieces. Foster 
H. Stafford, the first president, died in 1891, 
and was succeeded by Robert T. Davis. The 
treasurers have been: S. P. Lovell. 1871- 
82; Albert E. Bosworth, 1882-88: Effingham 
C. Haight, 1888-90: Frank W. Brightman, 
1890-1901: Fred E. Waterman since 1901. 
The directors are Robert T. Davis. Robert 
Henry, .lohn C. Milne, Edward E. Hathaway, 
Samuel W. Hathaway, Charles B. Luther and 
Fred E. Waterman. The superintendent is 
Timothy Sullivan. 

The American Linen Company was incor- 
porated in 1852 as the American Linen Man- 
ufacturing Company, with a capital of $350.. 
000. Colonel Richard Borden, Jefferson Bor- 
den, Oliver S. Hawes and Lazarus Borden 
were the chief promoters of the enterprise, 
which was started for the manufaclnre of 
fine linen fabrics. Large stone buildings 
were erected, including a mill 301x63. but 
the demand for the product soon fell off. 
because of the introduction of thin woolen 
and cotton cloths, which could be purchased 
at less cost, and in 1858 the machinery was 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



79 



removed to smaller buildings, where the 
manufacture of linen was carried on till 
1SG4. The main building was enlarged and 
equipped for the production of print cloth, 
and in 1SG6 the No. 2 was built, 393x72, and 
five stories high. The two upper stories of 
this factory were burned June 29, 1S76, and 
rebuilt with a flat roof. The mill was ex- 
tended 80 feet in 189.3. The company was 
chartered under its present name in IS.iS, 
but in 1S79 it was discovered that through 
the neglect of certain formalities it was not 
in legal possession of the plant, and the old 
company had to be revived for a time by 
Legislative act to allow proper conveyance. 
The mill has IS.SIG mule and 72,416 frame 
spindles, with 2,350 narrow and 100 wide 
looms. It employs 925 hands and has a 
weekly production of 15,000 pieces. Richard 
Borden was president from 1852-75; Jeffer- 
son Borde-n, 1875-87; John S. Brayton, 1887- 
1904. when he was succeeded by Richard B. 
Borden. Walter Paine, 3d, was treasurer 
until 1879 and Philip D. Borden from 1879- 
1S9G, when he was succeeded l)y James E. 
Osborn. The directors are Richard B. Bor- 
den, Clark Shove, Oliver S. Hawes, Jeifer- 
son Borden, James E. Osborn and John S. 
Brayton. The superintendent is John A. 
Collins. Since 1901 the company has oper- 
ated the Allen Print Works at Providence 
for the finishing of a part of its product. The 
original capital was increased in 1889 to 
$800,000. 

The Union mills were the first to be built 
here on the basis of general subscription by 
the community, and were started chiefly 
through the efforts of Hale Remington in 
1859. A company was formed with |175,- 
oou capital, S. Aagier Chace. president; 
David Anthony, treasurer; Simeon Borden, 
clerk, and S. A. Chace, David Anthony, Hale 
Remington. William Mason, Charles O. 
Shove and Charles P. Dring. directors. A 
15,000 spindle mill was erected, followed by 
another of twice its size in 1865. No. 3 mill 
was built in 1877. and No. 4 mill in 1895 as 
an addition to No. 2. This last is three 
stories in height. 140x94. 

The plant now has 24,640 mule and 85.488 
frame spindles and 2,859 looms, of which 
1.717 are more than 32 inches in width. It 
emplo.vs 825 hands. S. A. Chace succeeded 
Mr. Anthony as treasurer, and in 1878. owing 
to financial irregularities, the company 
passed into the hands of its creditors. It 
was reorganized as the Union Cotton Manu- 
facturing Company, with a capital of $500,- 



000, William D. Forbes, president, and 
Thomas E. Brayton, treasurer. Mr. Forbes 
was succeeded as president by James M. 
Morton, he by Horatio Hathaway, and he 
by Edward L. Anthony. The capital was 
increased to $750,000, and then to $1,200,000, 
its present figure. The directors are Edward 
L. Anthony, Thomas M. Stetson, Thomas B. 
Wilcox, Joseph P. Knowles, Andrew Borden, 
Thomas E. Brayton and Thomas S. Hatha- 
way. The superintendent is John C. Judge. 

The King Philip mills were incorporated 
in 1871, with a capital of $500,000. Crawford 
E. Lindsey was president, Elijah C. Kilburn. 
treasurer, and Jonathan Chace, James 
Henry, S. Angler Chace, Crawford E. Lind- 
sey, Philip D. Borden, Charles O. Shove, 
Elijah C. Kilburn, Azariah S. Tripp, Benja- 
min A. Chace, Simeon Borden and Charles 
H. Dean, directors. The first mill was of 
granite, 320x92. In 1881 the capital was in- 
creased to $1,000,000, and mill No. 2 erected, 
380x92. This was followed by two large 
weave sheds, one 288x100, in 1888, and the 
other 406x127, in 1892. The mills now have 
44,800 mule, and 89,200 frame spindles 
and 3.000 looms, of which all are more 
than 32 inches in width. They employ 
1,100 hands and produce plain and fancy fine 
goods. Crawford E. Liudsey was presi- 
dent till 18S3; Robert Henry, 1883-85; 
Charles J. Holmes, 1885-1906, and George 
A. Ballard since March, 1906. Simeon B. 
Chase succeeded Mr. Kilburn as treasurer 
on his death in 1885. The directors are 
George A. Ballard, Henry H. Earl, Leontine 
Lincoln, Charles E. Fisher, Simeon B. Chase. 
Oliver S. Hawes, James P. Jackson. William 
F. Draper and Francis A. Foster. P. A. 
Mathewson is superintendent. 

The Granite mills were organized in 1863. 
largely through the efforts of Charles O. 
Shove and Edmund Chase The capital wa.s 
originally $225,000. William Mason was 
president. Charles O. Shove treasurer, and 
William Mason, John S. Brayton, Edmund 
Chase, C. O. Shove, Lazarus Borden, Sam- 
uel Hathaway and Charles P. Stickney direc- 
tors. A five-story granite mill, 328x72, was 
erected in 1863 and No. 2. 37Sx7L in 1871. 
No. 1 was partially burned, with loss of life, 
September 19, 1874, and at once rebuilt. In 
1893 a third mill, of granite, two stories in 
height, 237x127, was erected for spin- 
ning; one of one story, 234x127, for 
weaving, and a one-story jricker room, 
127x44. The plant has a total of 33.416 
mule and 85,600 frame spindles, and 3.090 



80 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



looms, of which 1,538 are wide. It em- 
ploys 1,100 hands in the production of 11,000 
pieces weekly of fine and medium goods to 
order. The capital was increased to $400,000 
in May, 1864, and in July of the same year 
to $415,000; reduced in 1871 to $400,000; 
increased by a stock dividend to $800,000 in 
1892 and to $1,000,000 du 1893. William 
Mason was president until 1892; John S. 
Brayton, 1892-1904; Edward E. Hathaway 
since 1904. Charles O. Shove was succeeded 
as treasurer by his son, Charles M. Shove, 
in 1875. The directors are John S. Brayton, 
Edward E. Hathaway, Robert Henry, Charles 
M. Shove and Edward Shove. Thomas H. 
.McCreery is superintendent. 

The Barnard Manufacturing Company was 
organized in October, 1873, through the ef- 
forts of Louis L. Barnard, Stephen Davol, 
William H. Jennings and Nathaniel B. Bor- 
den. The capital was fixed at $400 OOO, but 
was afterwards reduced to $330,000. Work 
was at once begun to erect a cotton factory 
of stone, 280 feet long and 74 feet wide, to 
contain 28,400 spindles (14,880 mule and 
13,520 frame spindles) and 768 30-inch looms. 
The buildings were completed in the summer 
of 1874. The Barnard mill was one of the 
first, if not the first, to manufacture cloth 
other than the regular 28-inch print cloths, 
and was the first of the new mills in Fall 
River to adopt the Sawyer Ring Spindle for 
spinning warp. Spindles and looms were 
added from time to time, until in 1895 the 
mill contained 37,200 spindles (17,360 mule 
and 19,840 ring spindles) and 918 looms (685 
narrow and 233 wide). In 1896 the capital 
stock having been increased to $495,000 and 
a new granite weave shed of irregular shape, 
304 feet Jong and 148 feet wide in its widest 
part, two stories high, having been built, new 
machinery of every description was bought 
and installed, so that now the mill is prac- 
tically a new mill with modern appliances 
and contains 66,480 frame spindles and 1,704 
looms (580 narrow and 1,184 wide), and 
gives employment to 600 hands. Louis 
L. Barnard, for whom the mill was namel. 
was the first president of the corporation. 
1S73 to ISSO. William H. Jennings was pres- 
ident, 1880 to 1885; Dr. James M. Aldrich 
succeeded Mr. Jennings, 1885 to 1896. and 
Bradford D. Davol has been president since 
1S!)6. Nathaniel B. Borden has been treas- 
urer since the formation of the corporation. 
Isaac L. Hart was the first superintendent, 
and died in December, 18S6, and was suc- 
ceeded by William Hathaway, the present in- 



cumbent. The directors are:. Bradford D. 
Davol, Fall River; Arnold B. Chace, Provi- 
dence; William H. Gifford, North West- 
port; Leontine Lincoln, Fall River; William 
H. Jennings, Fall River; Simeon Borden, 
Fall River; Stephen A. Jenks, Pawtucket; 
and Nathaniel B. Borden Fall River. 

The Border City mills were incorporated 
in 1872, with a capital of $1,000,000. S. An- 
gler Chace, George T. Hathaway, Stephen 
Davol, Chester W. Greene, Elijah C. Kilburn, 
Charles P. Stickney, Alexander D. Easton, 
John M. Dean, William E. Dunham, James E. 
Cunneen and Horatio N. Durfee constituted 
the board of direction; S. Angier Chace was 
chosen president, and George T. Hathaway 
treasurer. 

Mill No. 1 was built in 1872 and mill No. 
2 the following year. November 2, 1877, mill 
No. 1 was destroyed by fire. In the spring 
of 1878 this company failed and the property 
passed into the hands of its creditors. 

February 25, 1880, a new company was 
formed under the name of the Border City 
Manufacturing Company, with a capital of 
$400,000. Walter C. Durfee, John S. Brayton, 
Crawford E. Lindsey. Alphonso S. Covel, 
Jonathan Bourne, J. Arthur Beauvais, Moses 
W. Richardson, William H. Hill, Jr., George 
M. Woodward were elected directors; John 
S. Brayton was chosen president, Otis N. 
Pierce treasurer and William J. Kent super- 
intendent. 

December 9, 1880 it was voted to rebuild 
the mill destroyed by fire and to increase 
the capital to $600,000. May 24. 1882, the 
capital was again increased to $800,000. 
April, 1882. Mr. Pierce and Mr. Kent re- 
signed and were succeeded by Edward L. 
Anthony as treasurer and Gilbert P. Cuttle 
as superintendent. May 15, 1888, it was 
voted to build mill No. 3 and the capital was 
increased to $1,000,000. The corporation 
now has 39,044 mule. 80,768 frame spindles 
and 2,956 looms. 2,324 of which are wide 
looms. It employs 1,000 hands. 

Mr. John S. Brayton served as president 
of the corporation until his death and was 
succeeded in November, 1904, by Thomas E. 
Brayton. Mr. Cuttle resigned as superin- 
tendent September 1, 1902. and was suc- 
ceeded by John J. Shay. 

The Stevens Mnnuiacturlng Company was 
incorjjoraled in 1892 \v\lh a capital of $250,- 
00(1. Frank S. Stevens was president. George 
H. Hills, treasurer, and Frank S. Stevens, 
Roi)ert T. Davis, Simeon B. Chase, Edward 
B. Jennings, George H. Hills, W. W. Craiw 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



81 



and William F. Draper directors. Land was 
purchased, buildings were erected and ma- 
chinery installed for the manufacture of 
satin, Marseilles and crochet quiltings. In 
April, 1S99, the capital was increased to 
$350,0U0. The capital was still further in- 
creased in November of luoi to $700,OOU, 
and in 1902 a second mill was built for the 
manufacture of cotton and linen damask and 
also cotton and linen crash. The corpora- 
tion now employs about 600 hands. Mr. 
Hills, the first treasurer, is still in office. 
•Mr. F. S. Stevens died April 25, 1S9S, and 
was succeeded by Simeon B. Chase, who is 
now the president of the corporation. The 
directors are W. W. Crapo, J. E. Osborn, 
Robert T. Davis, E. B. Jennings, S. B. Chase,' 
George H. Hills and Robert S. GofC. Thomas 
McAuliffe is the superintendent. 

The Barnaby mills were incorporated in 
1882, with 1300,000, with Simeon B. Chase 
president, Stephen B. Ashley treasurer and 
S. B. Chase, Samuel Waddington, Robert T. 
Davis, George H. Hawes, S. B. Ashley, 
George H. Hills, J. B. Barnaby, Charles E. 
Barney and William F. Draper directors. A 
16,000 spindle mill, with .500 looms, was 
erected for the manufacture of fine ging- 
hams. The mill now has 16,000 frame spin- 
dles and 1,050 looms, and employs 550 hands, 
producing 2,500 pieces weekly. The original 
capital was increased in 1884 to $400,000, 
and in 1904 decreased to $100,000 and raised 
to $350,000. Mr. Chase was succeeded as 
president in 1900 by Jerome C. Borden. 

The treasurers have been S. B. Ashley, 
1882-1900; Arthur H. Mason, 1900-1904; 
Fred W. Harley, 1904-5; Harry L. French 
since 1905. The directors are Jerome C. Bor- 
den, B. D. Davol, F. O. Dodge, James F. 
Jackson, William C. Hawes and F. W. Har- 
ley. Bben C. Willey is superintendent. 

The Flint mills were organized in Feb- 
ruary, 1872, with a capital of $500,000, in- 
creased in October to $580,000. John D. 
Flint was the first president, Stephen C. 
Wrightington treasurer and John D. Flint, 
Robert T. Davis, Stephen Davol, William H. 
Jennings, William T. Hall, Dawiel McGowan, 
Gardner T. Dean, S. C. Wrightington, Wil- 
liam Carroll and Cornelius Hargraves direc- 
tors. A five-story mill, 300x94, was erected, 
destroyed by fire October 28, 1882, and at 
once rebuilt. The plant has 50,816 frame 
spindles, 1,164 looms, of which 978 are more 
tnan 32 inches wide; employs about 500 
hands and has a weekly production of 50,000 
pounds under normal conditions. Mr. 



Wrightington resigned as treasurer in 
4.iarch, 1872, and was succeeded by George 
H. Eddy, who served until 1878. John D. 
Flint then took the position, and Bradford 
D. Davol became president. In 1879 Mr. 
Flint resumed the presidency and Bradford 
D. Davol was elected treasurer, remaining 
until 1882, when he was succeeded by Wil- 
liam S. Potter. The directors are John D. 
Flint, Franklin L. Almy, Bradfonl D. Davol, 
John F. Stafford. Thomas L. Doyle and 
William S. Potter. Superintendent, Robert 
Place. 

The Mechanics mills were incorporated in 
1868, with $750,000 capital. Thomas J. Bor- 
den was president and agent, D. H. Dyer 
clerk and treasurer, and Thomas J. Borden, 
Stephen Davol, Lazarus Borden, Job B. 
French, Southard H. Miller, B. M. C. Durfee, 
Tillinghast Records, James M. Morton and 
A. D. Easton directors. A five-story brick 
mill, 372.X92 was erected. The capacity of 
the plant has been gradually increased, till 
it now has 17,248 mule and 41,072 frame 
spindles, with 1,550 looms, of which 510 are 
more than 32 inches in width. It employs 
550 hands and has a weekly production of 
7,500 pieces. The presidents have been: 
Thomas J. Borden, 1868-71; Stephen Davol, 
1871-88; Thomas J. Borden, 1888-1902; John 
S. Brayton, 1902-1904; Richard B. Borden, 
1904 to date. D. H. Dyer, the first treas- 
urer, was succeeded by Thomas J. Borden 
from 1871-76; George B. Durfee, 1876-79; 
Frank S. Stevens, 1879-82; H. N. Durfee, 
1882-92; Edward Shove, 1892-1905; Edward 
L. Anthony in 1905. The directors are Rich- 
ard B. Borden, Bradford D. Davol, Edward 
S. Adams, John S. Brayton and Edward L. 
Anthony. Felix Crankshaw is superintendent. 
The Seaconnet mills were organized in 
1884, with a capital of $400,000, and erected 
a 35,000 spindle mill, enlarged in 1895 to 
about its present size. The capital was in- 
creased in 1894 to $600,000. The first officers 
were: President, Henry C. Lincoln; Treas- 
urer, Edward A. Chace; Directors, Henry 
C. Lincoln, George A. Draper, Stoi)licn A. 
Jencks. William Beattie, D. A. Chapin, Wil- 
liam R. Warner, Augustus Chace, Milton 
Reetl and Reuben Hargraves. Mr. Jencks 
was elected president in 1884, on Mr. Lin- 
coln's death, and was succeeded in ISSS by 
Leontine Lincoln. Edward A. Chace was 
treasurer until 1904, when he was succeeded 
temporarily by Milton Reed and soon after 
by William N. McLano. James E. Cunneon 
has been superintendent since the organlza- 



82 



HISTORY OF FALL RTVER 



tion of the corporation. It now has 65,400 
frame spindles and 1,S48 looms, of which 732 
are more than 32 inches in width. The 
number of hands employed is 600, and the 
weekly production lO.OOO pieces. The di- 
rectors are Leontine L/incoln, Joseph A. 
Bowen, William Boattie, Stephen A. Jencks, 
William R. Warner, .J. T. Lincoln and Wil- 
liam N. McLane. 

The Tecumseh mills were incorporated in 
1866 by Augustus Chace, James W. Hartley, 
John P. Slade and their associates, with a 
capital of $350,000, in shares of $1,000 each, 
reduced in 1S77 to $62,000. A five-story 
granite mill, 196x72, was erected on Hartwell 
street. A large addition was built a few 
years later and in 1872 a second mill, 200x75, 
was constructed on Plymouth avenue, fol- 
lowed in 1895-96 by No. 3, 310x100 feet. The 
plant now has 75,824 frame spindles and 
1,806 looms, of which 934 are more than 32 
inches wide. It employs 600 hands and has 
a weekly production of 12,000 pieces. Augus- 
tus Chace was the first president, Isaac B. 
Ohace treasurer, and Augustus Chace, James 
W. Hartley, I^oivis L. Barnard, Lazarus Bor- 
den, Jonathan T. Lincoln, Cook Borden and 
Danforth Horton. directors. Augustus Chace 
was president until 1886, when he was suc- 
ceeded by Jerome C. Borden. Isaac B. Chace. 
the first treasurer, was followed by Simeon 
B. Chase, and in August, 1882, by Frank H. 
Dwelly. The directors are Jerome C. Bor- 
den, Simeon B. Chase, Leontine Lincoln. 
George H. Hills and F. H. Dwelly. Robin- 
son Walmsley is superintendent. The capi- 
tal was increased May 14, 1906 from $5(10.- 
0(10 to $750,000. 

The Davol mills were organized in 1866 
and incoriwrated the following year. The 
capital was fixed February 3, 1868, at $270.- 
000. 

A five-story brick mill, about 300 feet long 
by 73 feet wide, was erected, and the manu- 
facture of shirting, sheeting, silesIa and 
fancy fabrics begun. In 1871 the directors 
were authorized to build an addition to con- 
tain about the same number of spindles, and 
this addition was placed at right aaiglos with 
t)he original mill, so that the plant now forms 
two sides of a quadrangle. 

On May 1, 1878, by vote of the stockhold- 
ers, the capital stock was increased to $400,- 
nnn. This increase was not successful. 

On December 18, 1879, the capital stock 
was reduced froni $400,000 to $2,700, and 
on the same day Increased from $2,700 to 
$400,000. On May 7, 1SS8, the capital stock 



was reduced from $400,000 to $100,000, and 
at the same time increased to $300,000. 

June 24, 1890, the stock was further in- 
creased from $300,000 to $400,000. 

The mill now has 11,008 mule spindles, 33,- 
664 frame spindles and 1,240 looms, of which 
1.094 are more than 32 inches wide. It em- 
ploys 380 hands and produces about 4,006 
pieces of plain and fancy goods weekly. 

William C. Davol was president from 186G 
to 1882; Jonathan Slade from 1882 to 1883; 
F. S. Stevens from 1883 to 1885; A. B. San- 
ford from 1885 to 1892; Frank L. Fish from 
1892 to 1903. W. R. Chester has now been 
president since 1903. 

WilHain C. Davol, Jr., was treasurer from 
1866 to 1878; F. S. Stevens from 1878 to 
1883; C. M. Slade from 1883 to 1885; B. W. 
Nichols from 1885 to 1887. George H. Hills, 
the present treasurer, has occupied this of- 
fice since 1887. 

The directors now are: W. R. Chester 
N. J. Rust, C. R. Batt, J. J. Hicks, W. S. 
Granger, F. L. Fish, S. B. Chase, G. S. Eddy. 
Richard G. Riley is the superintendent. 

The Richard Borden Manufacturing Com- 
pany was incorporated in 1871 with a capital 
of $800,000. Richard Borden was president, 
rnomas J. Borden treasurer, and Richard 
Borden, Philip D. Borden, Thomas J. Bor- 
den and A. S. Covel directors. The first mill 
was erected in 1872, and the No. 2 in 1889. 
The mills have 80,688 frame and 15,360 
mule spindles, and 2,529 looms, of which 
2,295 are over 32 inches. They employ 745 
hands and have a weekly production equiva- 
lent to 15,000 pieces of print cloths, nearly 
all wide goods and fancies. The capital of 
the corporation has remained unchanged, ex- 
cept that in 1889 'it was reduced to $675,000 
and again increased to $800,000 by paynffent 
of $125,000. On the death of Colonel Rich- 
ard Borden, in 1874, his son, Richard B. Bor- 
den, was elected president and continued in 
office until 1876, when his brother. Thomas 
J., resigned as treasurer. Richard B. took 
that position, and Thomas J. was made presi- 
dent. He was succeeded as president on 
his death, in 1902. by Edward P. Borden, 
of Philadelphia. The present directors are 
Richard B. Borden. Jerome C. Borden. Rich- 
ard P. Borden. Rufus W. Bassett, Edward 
P. Borden. Aloxamlor iiakepeace is super- 
intendent. 

The Shove nulls were organized In the 
spring of 1872, largely through the efforts of 
John P. Slade, Charles O. Shove, George A. 
Chace and Joseph McCreery, and chartered 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



83 



April 2, with a capital of $550,000. The 
corporation's name was selected in honor to 
Jlr. Shove, who was elected the first presi- 
dent. John P. Slade was treasurer, and 
Charles O. Shove, joseph McCreery, George 
A. Chace, Lloyd S. Earle, William Connell, Jr., 
Nathan Chace, Isaac \V. Rowland, Josiah C. 
Blaisdell and .John P. Slade directors. The 
foundation of the first mill was put in in 
1S73, the structure completed in 1ST4 and 
put in operation the following April. It is of 
granite, 339x74, and five stories in height. 
The No. 2 mill also of gramite, 194x75 feet, 
and three stories high, was built on the 
Rhode Island side of the State line in ISSO- 
Sl and devoted to spinning. A two-story 
weave shed, 1841/2x120 feet, was erected 
in 1897. The mills have 72,800 spindles, 
composed of 11,232 mule and 61,568 frame. 
They have 2,100 looms, of which 1,100 are 
more than 32 inches wide, and employ 700 
hands in the manufacture of print cloths 
and odd counts. The weekly production is 
8,000 pieces. Charles O. Shove, the first 
president, was succeeded on his death in 
1875 by John P. Slade, in 1880 by Charles M. 
Shove, and in 1900 by Isaac W. Rowland. 
-Mr. Slade was succeeded as treasurer by 
George A. Chace in 1874 and by Cyrus C. 
Rounseville in 1SS4. The present board 
of directors consists of Isaac W. Howland, 
Gyrus C. Rounseville, Fenner C. Brownell, 
John A. Miller and Charles A. Hambly. 
Charles H. Richardson, Jr., is superintendent. 
The Chace mills were incorporated in 1871, 
with a capital of $500,000. through the enter- 
prise of Augustus Ch'ace, George \V. Grinnell, 
Cook Borden and Joseph A. Baker. Augus- 
tus Chace was president until his death, in 
18S6, when he was succeeded by Edward 
E. Hathaway. Joseph A. Baker has been 
treasurer since the first. A six-story gran- 
ite mill was erected in 1S72, 377x74, and No. 
2, of granite, 310x120, two stories, in 1895. 
In 1906 the company purchased the plant of 
the Burlington Cotton mills, at Burlington, 
Vt., and now operates a total of 115.928 spin- 
dles and 2,647 looms. It employs 850 hands 
and has a week'.y production of 11.000 pieces. 
The original capital has been increased by 
stock dividends to $750,000 in 1S99. and $900.- 
IMIO in 1905. The directors are Edward E. 
Hathaway, Joseph A. Baker, George W. Grin- 
nell, Jerome C. Borden, John H. Bates and 
Henry H. Eddy. John C. Smith is superin- 
tendent. 

The Merchants' Manufacturing Company 
was organized in the fall of 1860, with a cap. 



ital of $800,000, largely through the efforts 
of William H. Jennings, who became the first 
treasurer, with James Henry president 
and James Henry, W. H. Jennings, Augustus 
Chace, L .L. Barnard, Robert S. Gibbs, 
Charles H. Dean, Crawford E. Lindsey, Rob- 
ert K. Remington and Lafayette Nichols di- 
rectors. A granite mill, five stories in 
height, was erected and the first cloth made 
in February, 1868. In 1871 the structure was 
enlarged to a total lengtn of 397 feet, in 
which there were then 85,570 spindles and 
1,942 looms. In March, 1893, the corporation 
acquired the adjoining property of the Cres- 
cent mills, and now has 32,032 mule and 
101,504 frame spindles, with 3,327 looms, of 
which 1,101 are more than 32 inches wide. 
It employs 1,150 hands and has a weekly pro- 
duction of 19,000 pieces. Since 1901 it has 
operated the Allen Print Works at Provi- 
dence, R. I., in conjunction with the Amer- 
ican Linen Company, for the finishing of part 
of its product. Mr. Henry was president 
until 1893, when he was succeeded by James 
M. Osbom and he in 1898 by Edward B. Jen- 
nings. The treasurers have been: W. H. 
Jemnings, 1860-82; Siimeon B. Chase, 1882- 
85; Alphonso S. Covel, 1885-1887; Andrew 
Borden, 1887-1898, and James E. Osbom 
since 1898. The directors are: Edward 
B. Jennings, Richard B. Borden, Robert T. 
Davis, Robert Henry, Andrew J. Jennings, 
George L. Davol, Thomas E. Brayton, Wil- 
liam B. M. Chace and James E. Osborn. 
Harry J. Ricketson is superintendent. 

The Bourne mills was incorporated in 
June, 1881, with seven stockholders, namely: 
Jonathan Bourne, George A. Chace, Edmund 
Chase, Lloyd S. Earle, Danforth Horton, 
Charles M. Shove and Frank S. Stevens. 
The capital was fixed at $400,000. The capi- 
tal was increased in November. 1883, to 
$600,000 and reduced in October, 1SS4, 
again to $400,000. In September, 1903, it 
increased to $1,000,000, $400,000 of which 
was paid in by a special dividend. The 
stockholders now number over eighty, but a 
majority still remains in number with the 
immediate families and heirs of the original 
.«evcn and the Bourne interest controls a 
majority of the shares. 

The mills were built to manufacture goods 
upon orders, but before beginning opera- 
tions Mr. George. F. Morgan of Lowell, an 
expert canton flannel manufacturer, was 
engaged as superintendent, and the work 
diverted to this class of textiles. The busi- 
ness rcfiuirdd the .j.-rvicos of a selling agency 



84 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



and proved unprofitable. Mr. Morgan re- 
signed in 1885. Mr. Raymond Murray was 
chosen his successor and remained superin- 
tendent till April, 1905. Upon his resigna- 
tion Mr. William Evans became superintend- 
ent, but resigned in October, when the pres- 
ent superintendent, Mr. George Delano, was 
elected. 

Mr. Edmund Chase was first president of 
the corporation; upon his death, Hon. Jon- 
athan Bourne became president. He died 
in 1SS9, and his son, Hon. Jonathan Bourne, 
jr. was made his successor. The next year 
Hon. F. S. Stevens was elected president, 
and continued till he resignea m 1897, when 
Mr. Stephen A. Jenks was chosen. Mr. 
George A. Chace has been clerk and treas- 
urer from the beginning. The mills were 
built by him, with Lloyd S. Earle in charge 
of the masonry and Fenner Brownell over 
the carpenter's work. There were installed 
43,008 spindles and 1,080 looms. In 1900, a 
new weave shed was built under direction of 
Mr. Frank P. Sheldon, and the present plant 
contains 91,25S spindles and 2,640 looms. 

In 1889 the corporation adopted a plan 
of profit sharing with its employees, and reg- 
ular semi-annual dividends upon wages have 
been declared ever since, with one exception, 
on account of the general strike in 1904. 

The long strike of 1904 was a severe blow 
to the company, and the stock has recently 
been selling between $G0 and $70 a share. 

The record of dividends follows: 1885, 2 
per cent.; 1886, 6 per cent.; 1887, 14 per 
cent.; 1888, IG per cent.; 1889, 16 per cent.; 
1890, 12 per cent.; 1891, 12 per cent.; 1892. 
16 per cent; 1893, 12 per cent.; 1894, 12 
per cent; 1895, 24 per cent; 1896, 12 per 
cent.; 1897, 18 per cent.; 1898, 8 per cent; 
1899, 10 per cent; 1900, 14 per cent; 1901. 
CVj per cent; 1902, 12% per cent; 1903, 
491/4 per cent; 1904, 3% per cent.; 1905, 3 
per cent.; total, 279 per cent. 

The Luther Manufacturing Company was 
Incorporated In 1903 with a capital of $350,- 
000. Leontine Lincoln is president, Charles 
B. Luther treasurer, and Leontine Lincoln. 
Charles B. Luther, Robert C. Davis, John H. 
Bstes, William H. Jennings, James Marshall 
and William N. Mcl^ane directors. The com- 
pany took over the plant of the Robeson 
mills, which had boon Incorporated in lS6(;. 
with a capital of $26(1,000. Samuel Hatha- 
way was the first president. Linden Cook 
treasurer, and Andrew Robeson, Charles P. 
Stickney, Samuel Hathaway, William C. 
Davol, Jr., Linden Cook, Samuel Castner and 



Josiah Brown, directors. Mr. Hathaway was 
president till 1873; C. P. Stickney, 1873-78; 
Linden Cook, 1878-82; Danforth Horton, 
1882-84; C. M. Hathaway, 1884-95; Charles 
B. Luther, 1S95-9S. Louis Robeson took Mr. 
Cook's place as treasurer when the latter be- 
came president, was succeeded by Clarence 
.\.. Hathaway, and by C. B. Luther in 1898. 
The plant was enlarged and modernized, fol- 
lowing its purchase by the Luther Company, 
and now has 44,704 frame spindles, with 
1,000 looms, of which 850 are more than 32 
inches wiide. It employs 400 hands, and has 
a weekly production of 4,600 pieces. John H. 
Holt is superintendent. $250,000 20-year 5 
per cent, bonds were issued August 1, 1903. 
The directors are Leontine Lincoln, Charles 
B. Luther, Robert C. Davis, John H. E)stes, 
William H. Jennings and James Marshall. 

The Conanicut mills were formed with a 
capital of $80,000 in 1880 by Crawford E. 
Lindsey and others to take over the Olfver 
Chace mill, which had been operated by 
Chace for the manufacture of thread for 
about 25 years after its erection in 1840, and 
which had passed into the control of the 
American Printing Company in 1866 and be- 
come known as the Mount Hope mill. The 
first officers of the new corporation were: 
President, Edmund W. Converse; Treasurer, 
Crawford E. Lindsey; Directors, E. W. Con- 
verse, Charles L. Thayer, William Lindsey. 
Elijah C. Kilburn and Crawford E. Lind- 
sey. The capdtal and the size of the plant 
have been increased, till it now has 21,712 
frame and 5,750 mule spindles, with 697 
looms, and employs about 275 hands. Mr. 
Converse, the first president, was succeeded 
by his son of the same name on his death 
in 1894. Mr. Lindsey is still treasurer. The 
present directors are E. W. Converse, James 
H. Chace, C. E. Linnsey, C. E. Barney and 
Clarence A. Brown. The last Is superintend- 
ent 

The Cornell mills were incorporated in 
1S89, with a capital of $400,000. The first 
officers were: John D. Flint, president; John 
W. Hargraves, treasurer, and John D. Flint, 
Reuben Hargraves, Thomas Hargraves, Dan- 
iel H. Cornell, Clark Chase, James F. Jack- 
son Cyrus Washburn. Arthur L. Kelley, 
Stephen A. Jenks, Rodman P. Snelling and 
William F. Draper. Jr.. directors. A four- 
story granite mill was erected 375x120. The 
plant has 41,920 frame spindles and 1.080 
looms, of which 780 are more than 32 ihches 
wide, employs 400 hands and has a weekly 
production of 5,500 pieces of odd goods of 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



85 



fine and medium counts. Mr. Flint has been 
president since the organization. Fred E 
Waterman succeeded Mr. Hargraves as 
treasurer in US9(|. The directors are John D 
Flint, Daniel H. Cornell, James F. Jaclison 
Edward S. Adams, Fred E. Waterman, John 
F. Stafford, Stephen A. Jonlis, Mvron Fish 
and Rodman P. Snelling. Franlc S. Akin is 
superintendent. 

The Laurel Lalve mills were organized in 
ISSl by John P. Slade, Hon. Robert T Davis 
and Henry C. Lincoln, with a capital of 
$400,000. John P. Slade was elected presi- 
dent and Abbott E. Slade treasurer, and a 
34,000 spindle mill erected, enlarged in 1S9G 
by the building of an addition 93x161 feet. 
The capital was increased to $500,000 in 
1S95, and in 1S9S reduced to ?200,000 and in- 
creased to 1300,000. The plant has 59,S(l.s 
frame spindles and 1,G2S looms, of which G18 
are more than 32 inches in width. It em- 
ploys 4S5 hands and has a weekly produc- 
tion of 8,500 pieces. John P. Slade was 
president until his death, when he was suc- 
ceeded by his son, Leonard N. Slade. Abbott 
E. Slade has been treasurer from the organ- 
izaUon of the corporation, except October. 
189S, to October, 1900, when Edward L. 
Anthony held that position. The directors 
are Leonard N. Slade, Joseph H. Bowen, 
John B. Huard, S. W. Bowen. Ralph W.' 
Reynolds and L. Elmer Wood. Edmund La- 
lime is superintendent. 

The Weetamoe mills were incorporated 
in ISTl. with $550,000 capital; Louis L. Bar- 
nard, president; D. Hart well Dyer, treas- 
urer and Messrs. Barnard, Dyer, Job B. 
I'Tench. Jonathan L Hilliard, F. K. Hill, Will- 
iam Lindsey, Francis B. Hood. Henry C. Lin- 
coln and Elijah C. Kilburn directors. A five- 
story brick mill, 320x74, was erected. The 
plant has 13,200 mule and 31,072 frame spin- 
dles, and 1,183 looms of which 108 are more 
than 32 inches wide. It employs 400 hands 
and has a weekly production of G,700 pieces. 
L. L. Barnard was president, 1870-75; .lob B. 
French, 1875-94; William Lindsey, 1894-97. 
and George H. Eddy since that time. Mr, 
Dyer was treasurer till 1875; William Lind- 
sey from 1875 to 1892, and Enoch J. French 
since 1892. The directors are George H. 
Eddy, .John P. Nowell, George N. Durfee, 
Enoch J. French Cornelius S. Greene. J. Ed- 
ward Newton. Superintendent. Richard 
Thackeray. 

The Crescent mills, now the property of 
the Merchants Manufacturing Company. 
were incorporated in 1871, with a capital of 



$»00,0U0, and a mill 339x74 erected, with 
33,280 spindles and 744 looms. The original 
Officers were Benjamin Covel, president; La- 
tayette Nichols, treasurer, and Benjamin 
Covel, Lafayette Nichols, Daniel A. Chapin 
William B. Durfee. J. F. Nichols. Joseph 
Brady, David F. Brown. G. M. Haffards and 
Alphonso S. Covel. directors. The treasurers 
were: Lafayette Nichols, 1871-1873; Richard 
B. Borden, 1S73-7G; Alphonso S. Covel, elect- 
ed in 187G, and followed by Benjamin War- 
ren, until the purchase of the property by 
the Merchants Manufacturing Company, in 

The Sagamore mills were incorporated in 
1872, with a capital of $500,000. Louis L 
Barnard was president, Francis B. Hood 
treasurer and Messrs. Barnard, Hood J C 
Blaisdell, J. w. Hartley, Charles McCreery, 
J. J. Hilliard, Joseph Borden, W. M \lmy 
D. Hartwell Dyer and J. T. Wilson, directors' 
A five-story brick mill, 320x73, was erected. 
In 1879 the company failed, following finan- 
cial irregularities, and was reorganized as 
the Sagamore Manufacturing Company, with 
a^ capital of $250,000, increased in ISSO to 
$500,000, again increased in 1881 to $750 000 
decreased in 1884 to $GO0.O0O. and in 1888 
increased to $900,000. A second mill was 
built is 1882, No. 1 burned in 1884 and re- 
placed by a new structure in 1888. The 
plant now has 4,060 mule and 87,456 frame 
spindles, with 2,362 looms, of which 854 are 
more than 32 inches wide. It employs ahout 
800 hands and has a weekly production of 
about 13,000 pieces. The presidents have 
been: L. L. Barnard, 1872-76; JameS A. 
Hathaway, 187G-79; Theodore Dean, 1879- 
1885; Charles .1. Holmes. 1885-1903; James 
M. Morton, Jr.. 1903 to present time. The 
treasurers have been: Francis B. Hood. 
1872-76; George T. Hathaway, 1S7G-79. When 
the corporation, Sagamore Manufactirring 
Companj", was organized Hezekiah A. Bray- 
ton was elected treasurer, November 6, 1879, 
and has served in that capacity ever since.' 
The directors are: John S. Brayton David 
H. Dyer, John D. Flint, David A. Brayton. 
Jr., H. A. Brayton, .Tames M. Morton. Jr., 
Randall W. Durfee, all of Fall River; Moses 
W. Richardson, of Boston and Francis A. 
Foster, of Weston. Mass. Superintendent. 
James A. Burke, Jr. 

The Ancona Company, known until 1903 
as the Slade Mills, was the first of the pres- 
ent cotton factories to be erected ITi the 
southern section of the city, and was Incor- 
porated in 1871 by William L. and Jona- 



86 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



than Slade, Benjamin Hall and the Dwelly 
heirs, the owners of real estate in that 
locality, associated with F. S. Stevens, John 
C. Milne. W. and J. M. Osborn, Richard B. 
and Thomas J. Borden, S. Angier Chace, 
Oavid A. Brayton and William Valentine, 
James M. Osborn was the first treasurer, 
succeeded in 1876 by Henry S. Fenner, and 
in 1903 by Frank H. Dwelly. The capital 
originally $550,000, was changed In ISUS to 
$247,500 and laler to $200,000, the present 
figure. One hundred thousand dollars in 
G per cent, cumulative preferred stock -was 
issued in 1903, and $200,000 in 5 per cent. 30- 
year bonds July 1 of that year. The mill has 
3S,8S0 frame spindles and 1,0G8 looms, of 
which 210 are more than 32 inches wide; 
employs 3S0 hands and produces 5,500 pieces 
of print cloths a week. Simoon B. Chase is 
president, and the directors are James E. Os- 
born, Simeon B. Chase, George H. Hills, 
James F. Jackson, P. A. Mathewson, F. H. 
Dwelly and James A. Chadwick. Daniel J. 
Harrington is superintendent. 

The Narragansett mills were incorpor- 
ated in 1871, with a capital of $350,000, soon 
after increased to $400,000. Alexander D. 
Easton was president, .Tames Waring treas- 
urer and A. D. Easton, James Waring, Foster 
H, Stafford, Daniel McCowan, Robert Adams, 
Samuel Watson, D. T. Wilcox, Holder B. Dur- 
fee, William Valentine, James P. Hilliard 
and Robert Henry directors. A five-story 
brick mill, 300x75, was erected, an addition 
in 1882, and a weave shed two stories in 
height 120x70 in 1895. The plant now has 
14,688 mule and 29,056 frame spindles and 
1,233 looms, of which 1,164 are more than 32 
inches wide. It employs 400 hands and pro- 
duces 5,500 pieces weekly. The presidents 
have been: A. D. Easton, 1871-76; Holder B. 
Durfee 1S7G-78; Robert Henry. 1878-89, and 
Edward S. Adams since that time. Mr. War- 
ing was succeeded as treasurer by Isaac A. 
Brown in 1897. The directors are Edward S. 
Adams, James Hunter, Charles M. Allen, 
Oliver K. Hawes, Isaac A. Bowen, all of 
Fall River; Abraham Steinam, New York. 
Jabez Wilkinson Is superintendent. 

The Osljorn mills were incorporated in 
1872, with Weaver Osborn president, Joseph 
Healy treasurer and Weaver Osborn, Joseph 
Healy, James T. Milne, Benjamin Hall, An- 
drew J. Borden, Joseph Osborn, Joseph E. 
Macomber, George T. Hathaway, John C. 
Milne, D. Hartwell Dyer and Edward E. 
Hathaway, directors. A flve-story granite 
mill, 318x74, was erected. In 188G the capi- 



tal slock was increased to $600,000 and the 
adjoining property of the Monlaup mills was 
purchased and remodelled for a No. 2 Os- 
born, for the manufacture of fine goods. A 
further increase in the capital to $750,000 
was made in 1900. The plant now has 21,420 
mule and 49,424 frame spindles, with 1,808 
looms, of which 842 are more than 32 inches 
wide. It employs 550 hands and has a 
weekly production of 6,500 pieces. Weaver 
Osborn was president until his death in 1894 ; 
he was succeeded by James M. Osborn, and 
in 1898 by John C. Milne. Joseph Healy, the 
first treasurer, was succeeded on his death 
in 1901 by Simeon B. Cthase. The directors 
are: John C. Milne, Edward E. Hathaway. 
John H. Estes, George N. Durfee, Eiias A. 
Tuttle, Simeon B. Chase and James E. Os- 
born. Joseph Walters has been superintend- 
ent since the organization of the corporation. 

The Montaup mills were incorporatetl in 
1871, with a capital of $250,000. Josiah 
Brown was president, Isaac Borden treas- 
urer, and Josiah Brown, Bradford D. Davol. 
George B. Durfee, A. D. Easton, William L. 
Slade, Isaac Borden, George H. Hawes, Wil- 
liam Valentine, Holder B. Durfee and Thos. 
J. Borden directors. A four-story brick mill. 
242x74, was built and machinery installe<l 
for the manufacture of seamless cotton bags. 
The demand fell off after a time, the busi- 
ness became unprofitable, and in 1886 the 
plant was sold to the Osborn mills. The 
machinery was removed, the mill enlarged 
and equipped for the manufacture of the 
finer grades of twills, sateens, etc. It is 
Imown as Osborn No. 2. 

The Glohe Yarn mills, now a part of the 
New England Cotton Yarn Company, were 
incorporated in 1881, with W. H. Jennings 
president, Arnold B. Sanford treasurer, and 
Messrs. Jennings, Sanford, Frank S. Stevens, 
Robert T. Davis, Blien S. Draper, James E. 
Osborn and Daniel D. Howland directors. The 
original capital was $175,000, soon increased 
to $200,000, then to $35G,000. both in 1881; to 
$600,000 in 1885, to $900,000 in 1887, and to 
$1,200,000 in 1891. Mill No. 1, 317x75, was 
built in 1881; No. 2, 355x75, in 1885; No. 3 
354x100, in 18S7; an addition to No. 1, 109x 
95, in 1891, and further enlargements since 
mat time. The plant now has 41,000 mule 
and 58,080 frame spindles, and produces 
weekly 140,000 pounds of yarn and thread. 
It employs 1.500 hands. The presidents 
were: W. H. Jennings. 1881-1 885: William 
Dindsey 1885-1896: Horace M. Barnes, for 
a brief period In 189G until his death ; Jerome 



HISTORY Ox^ FALL RIVER 



ceeded as treasurer in 1896 by Edward B 
Jennings, who served until the plant entered 
he , New England Cotton Yarn Company in 
il, . . ""■ Danielson is superintend- 

en of ,h,s plant and also of the Sanford 
opinning. 

TOe Sanford Spinning Company, which is 
now also a part of the New England Cotton 
yarn Company, was started in 1S91 through 
the efforts of Arnold B. Sanford and Arthur 
H. Mason, who became president and treas- 
urer respectively, to meet a growing de- 
mand tor colored and fancy yarns. The 
capital was |400,000, increased in 1S93 to 
*_500.000. The first mill was of thi-ee stories 

h,>. 'th^'V'''' """'^ ''°-^^^' 2V^ stories' 
high. The plant now has 37 364 mule spin- 
dles employs 700 hands, and has a weekly 
production of 120.000 poun.ls. Mr. Sanford 
was president from 1891-97; Frank S Ste- 
vens 1897-98. and Charles B. Cook from 1S98 
till the corporation was merged in the Yarn 
Company in 1899. Arthur H. Mason was 
treasurer during the entire period 

The Parker mills were incorporated in 
May. l89o. largely through the efforts of Seth 
A. Borden Leontine Lincoln and James E 
O-sborn, of this city, and William H. Parker 
of Lowell, and a mill three stories in height' 
"9,i/„.xus feet wide, erected. The capital 
stock when incorporated was |45().000 but 
was increased October IS. 1895, to $500 000 
The plant contained originally 998 looms and 
4o.,04 spindles. Later the looms were in- 
creased to 1.08S and the spindles to 48,968 
which IS the present equipment. The mill is 
equipped for weaving goods of the fine.st 
yarns. In May, 1899 the capital was in- 
creased to $800,000, and a mill built in War- 
ren. R. I. The present capacity of that mill is 
41,294 spindles and 1.382 looms. 

William H. Parker, of Lowell, was the first 
president, and on his death, in 1898. Hon 
Leontine Lincoln was elected to this' office 
and has acted as president ever since. Seth 
A. Borden has been treasurer of the corpo- 
ration since its organization. The directors 
are George E. Parker. Stephen A. Jenks. 
Fred W. Easton Leontine Lincoln, James 
E. Osborn. John n. Flint. George C. Silsburv 
and Seth A. Borden. 

The Arkwright mills were incoriioraled in 
1S97 for the manufacture of fine cotton 
goods, with a capital of $450,000, and erected 
a four-story stone mill 395x127 feet; Joseph 
A. Bowen. the first president, and John P. 
Bodge, the treasurer, are still in office. The 



87 



corporation has 00,368 frame spindles and 
1.40u looms, of which 1 043 are more than 
..2 inches in width, u employs 500 hands 
and has a weekly production of from 5 000 
to .,000 pieces, depending on kin.l of g.jods 
being made. The directors are Joseph A 
Bowen. Leontine Lincoln, Thomas D 
Covel. William H. Jennings. Chauncey h' 
Sears. James M. Morton. Jr.. D. H Cornell 
Spencer Borden. Jr., John P. Bwlge. Super- 
intendent, C. C. Pierson. 

Durfee Mills.-^A charter of incorpora- 
tion under the name of Durfee Mills was 
granted Bradford M. C. Durfee, David A 
Brayton and John S. Brayton. of Pall River 
Mass., on February 15, 1S6G. The mills were' 
named in memory of Bradford Durfee, whose 
son Bradford M. C. Durfee was the largest 
stockholder in the corporation. Eleven 
acres of land on the south side of Pleasant 
street and the west side of Eight Rod Way 
now Plymouth avenue, were selected as the 
site upon which to erect the mills. The first 
mill. 376x72 feet, with five stories and 
pitched roof, was erected of granite and 
equipped with the best machinery. 

On January i, 1867, the engines were 
first started, in March, the first cloth was 
made, and in November of that year the mill 
was in full operation. In 1871 Durfee Mill 
No. 2. a duplicate of mill No. 1. was built and 
equipped, thus douibling the production of 
print cloths of this corporation. In 1880 the 
plant was further enlarged by the erection 
of mill No. 3. 127x44 feet. 

During 1884 and 1885 two stories were 
added to the ell of No. 2 mill. The mill was 
revamped, new boilers were installed, new 
engines replaced the geared engines, warp 
frame spinning was introduced to take the 
place of mules, and the mill was generally 
toned up. A new cotton house, 204x93 feet 
was completed in IS87. and the No. 2 weave 
shed was built in 1893. 

Extensive repairs and alterations were 
made in No. 1 mill during 1894. New en- 
gines, boilers, picking, carding and frame 
spinning for warp and wefl were installed at 
a large outlay and the mill was greatly im- 
proved. A building containing the cloth 
room and repair shop was erected in 1895. 
In 1904 new engines were installed to as- 
sist the others In No. 2 mill; new picking 
machinery, canling and spinning frames 
were added. There are 137.488 frame spin- 
dles and 3,514 looms in the plant. 

The Durfee mills are equipped to make 
wide, medium and narrow cloths of dif- 



88 



HISTORY OF FALL RTVER 



ferent counts and weights, and employ over 
eleven hundred operatives. 

Bradford M. C. Durfee held the office of 
president of the corporation until his death 
in 1S72; John S. Brayton from 1872 until 
his death in 1904, and He/.ekiah A. Brayton 
is president at the present time. 

David A. Brayton, the originator of this 
extensive plant, was treasurer from its or- 
ganization until his death in 18S1, when he 
vi-as succeeded by the present treasurer, 
David A. Brayton, Jr. 

The directors of the corporation have been 
Bradford M. C. Durfee, David A. Brayton, 
o ahn S. Brayton, Israel Perry Brayton, David 
A. Brayton, Jr., He/.ekiah A. Brayton, John 
Jenckes Brayton, Bradford W. Hitchcock, 
William L. S. Brayton and John Sumnier- 
Eeld Brayton. 

The Davis mills were incorporated in 1902, 
with a capital of $500,000, for the manufac- 
ture of fine cotton goods, with Leontine Lin- 
coln president, J. Bion Richards treasurer, 
and Robert T. Davis, Leontino Lincoln, Dan- 
iel H. Cornell, Thomas D. Covel, William 
H. Jennings, William N. McLanc, William 
E. Fuller, Jr., and J. Bion Richards directors. 
A stone mall of three stories was erected in 
1903. In January, 1905, the corporation went 
into the hands of receivers. March 29, 1905, 
the receivers were discharged, new capital 
being paid in, thereby putting the corpora- 
tion on a sound financial basis. Mr. Rich- 
ards was succeeded as treasurer in Decem- 
ber, 1904, by Edward Barker, and Mr. Bar- 
ker in March by Arthur H. Mason. The mill 
has 52,73(; frame spindles and 1,100 wide 
loom.s. It employs 400 hands and has a 
weekly production of 4,000 pieces. The pres- 
ent officers are: President, Leontine Lin- 
coln; Treasurer, Arthur H. Mason; Clerk, 
William E. Fuller, Jr.; Directors, Daniel H. 
Cornell, Thomas D. Covel, .Tohn H. Estes. 
I^oontine Lincoln, William E. Fuller, Jr., 
Frank J. Hale, and Arthur H. Mason. The 
superintendent is James A. McLane. 

The Hargraves mills were organi/.od and 
incorporated in 1S8S, with a capital of $400.- 
000, for the manufacture of cotton goods, 
largely through the efforts of Selh A. Borden, 
wdth whom were as.soeiated Reuben and 
Thomas Hargarves, Leontine Lincoln. John 
Barlow, James E. Csborn and Stephen A. 
Jenks. No. 1 mill was erected in 1SS9, of 
granite, four stories In height, 320x90. In 
1S92 the capital was Increased to $800,000 
and No. 2 mill built, 482x127, a part three 
stories and a pant two. The plant now has a 



total of 29,SUG mule and 71,GG0 frame spin- 
dles, with 3,102 looms, and manufactures 
goods of the finest description. It employs 
about 800 hands. Reuben Hargarves, the 
first president, was succeeded by James E. 
Osborn in 1895 and by Leontine Lincoln in 
1898. Seth A. Borden has been treasurer 
since the organization of the corporation. 

The directors are Leontine Lincoln, Ste- 
phen A. Jenks, George C. Silsbury, Seth A. 
Borden, John D. Flint, Fred W. Easton, Wal- 
ter L. Parker. The superintendent is Wil- 
liam Evans. 

A large hat-making business has been de- 
veloped here in recent years from small be- 
ginnings. The present hat factory of James ^ 
Marshall & Bros, moved here about 1887 from 
Bridgeport, Conn., establishing itself at the 
foot of Shaw street, in a building erected for 
it by the Hon. Robert T. Davis, the Hon. 
Frank S. Stevens and the estate of William 
Jennings. 

The firm at that time consisted of James 
Marshall and D. T. Coleman, and the capa- 
city of their factory was about forty-eight 
dozen per day. They gradually outgrew fhe 
quarters there and purchased the old Wyo- 
ming mill property about 189G. 

In 1S9S they started the erection of their 
present plant, which now has a capacity of 
800 dozen hats daily. 

About a year after the factory was estab- 
lished at Fall River, D. T. Coleman retired 
from the firm, and five years later Robert 
Marshall and John Marshall, brothers of 
James Marshall, were taken into the firm, 
which has remained the same ever since. 

In 1893 the New England Fur Cutting 
Company, a partnership consisting of 
James, Robert and John Marshall, was 
established under the direction of M. E. 
Ryan in a small building on Ferry street, op- 
posite the Linen mill. 

At that time they handled about 12.000 ^ 
rabbit skins per week. In 1898 they moved 
from Ferry street to their present quarters 
on Chace street, and while the business is 
separate and distinct from the hat factory, 
it Is closely allied to it. Last year they used 
over 9,000.000 rabbit skins in producing fur 
for hat making, not only for the hat factory 
here, but others throughout the country. 

Along with this business also has grown 
what Is known as the Bristol County Hat 
Works, a Rhode Island corporation, doing 
business now Just over the border of Fall 
River, in Tiverton. Their business is to 
collect waste, old hats, etc.. from all por- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



89 



tions of the world, to extract the shellac 
that is used for stiffening, recover it so it 
may he used over, and shredding apart the 
old hats and waste material in such a man- 
ner as to malve this of use. They employ a 
large number of people, and the business is 
growing all the time. 

The Fall River Bleachery was incor- 
porated in May, 1S72, Spencer Borden being 
organizer of the company, whose capital 
stock was $250,000. The works of the cor- 
poration were built upon land purchased 
near the Tiverton line, the property border- 
ing the South Watuppa Pond, and getting 
its supply of pure water from .the Stafford 
Pond. Sucker Brook, the sole outlet of said 
pond, flows through the hieachery property 
and is dammed back to make a reservoir at 
the point where the works were built. 

Associated with Spencer Borden in the 
active operation of the Bleachery were his 
brother, Norman E. Borden, and George O. 
Lathrop. Jefferson Borden was president of 
the company unt^i his decease in 1887. Spen- 
cer Borden was treasurer until 18S0, when 
he was succeeded by his brother, Norman 
E. Borden. He held the ix).S'ition until his 
aecease in 1881, when Spencer Borden again 
became treasurer, so continuing until 1899. 

At the time the Bleachery commenced busi- 
ness, dn 1873, Michael Partington was super- 
m'tendent. He retired in 1878, and from 
that time until 1892 Spencer Borden acted as 
both treasurer and superintendent, Jefferson 
Borden, Jr., becoming superintendent in the 
latter year. 

On the death of Jefferson Borden in 1887 
George \V. Dean was elected president of the 
corporation, holding office until his decease 
in 1897. when he was succeeded by James 
Marshall. Mr. Marshall was president of 
the company until November, 1S99, when 
the property and business were sold to the 
ball River Bleaching Company of New Jer- 
sey. 

As stated, the first works were built in 
1872, starting business in 1873. In 1888 a 
stock dividend of 60 per cent was made, 
increasing the capital of the company to 
$400,000. and No. 2 works was built. 

The officers of the Fall River Bleachery 
Company of New .Jersey were: President, 
Spencer Borden; Treasurer, Spencer Borden. 
Jr.; Secretary, Geor.ge O. Lathrop; Super- 
intendent. Jefferson Borden. Jr., and the fol- 
lowing board of directors: Spencer Borden, 
Spencer Borden, Jr., Alfred Borden. Jeffer- 
son Borden, Jr., Bernard W. Trafford and 



Ridley Watts. The capital of the company 
was $000,000. Additional buildings were 
erected in 1903, 1904 and 190G. 

In 1905 the Fall River Bleachery Company 
of New Jersey became reincorporateu as 
the Pall River Bleachery, a Massachusetts 
corporation, the capital stock and officers 
continuing the same. Bleaching and finish- 
ing white cotton goods has been the business 
to which exclusive attention has been given, 
and the present capacity of the Fall River 
Bleachery is 50 tons daily. 

The Algonquin Printing Company was or- 
ganized and incorporated in 1891, through 
the efforts of James A. Chadwick and Adam 
Catterall, and began operations with a capi- 
tal of $100,000 and a capacity of 3,C00 pieces 
a weelv. Edward IJ. Jennings was the first 
president and Adam Catterall treasurer. The 
business prospered and the plant has been 
increased from time to time, till it now oper- 
ates twelve printing machines, with an output 
of 40,000 pieces of prints a week, and em- 
ploys 350 hands. The capital was increased 
to $160,000 in 1895, and in 1906, by a stock 
dividend, to $5110.000-. Robert T. Davis 
succeeded Mr. Jennings as president in 189G. 
Adam Catterall, the treasurer until 1894. 
wnen he became the company's representa- 
tive in New York, was followed as treasurer 
by Edward B. Jennings, and in 1891; by 
William H. Jennings. James A. Chadwick 
has been superintendent since the starting 
oi the works. The directors are R. T. Davis, 
\V. H. Jennings, J. A. Chadwick and Charies 
B. Cook. 

KILBURN, LINCOLN & CO. 

In 1829 Jonathan Thayer Lincoln, a native 
of Taunton, who had learned the trade of 
machinist of David Perry, of Dighton, 
and later worked in the machine shop 
of David Wilkinson, of Pawlucket, then 
one of the prominent machine shoi* of 
the country, came to Fall River and in 1831 
was employed as master mechanic of the 
Massasoit Mill Company, which then mased 
the mill property on Pocasset street owned 
by the Watuppa Manufacturing Compan.v. 
Later Mr. Lincoln began building looms on 
his own account in the shop of the Massa- 
soit company, as well as shafting and other 
mill machiner.v. 

In 1844 John Kilburn, a native of New 
Hampshire, began in Fall River the manufac- 
ture of cotton looms and the Fourneyron tur- 
bine, the latter a French invention, which 
was being introduced Irto the New England 



% 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



mills as a water motor. He had been in 
business only a short time when his health 
tailed, and he died in 184G. After his death 
his widow formed a co-partnership with his 
l)n)t.her, Elijah C. Kilburn, and Jonathan T. 
Lincoln, and continued the business under 
the name of K. C. Kilburn & Co., manutactur- 
ing turbines, shafting and various kinds of 
maohiinery for print works and iron mills. In 
1850 a new firm, Kilburn, Lincoln & Son, was 
formed, consisting of E. C. Kilburn, J. T. 
l^mcoln and his eldest son, Henry C. Lin- 
coln. Although making many other kinds of 
machinery, the firm made a specialty of the 
Kourneyron turbine, which, as improved by 
them, had a large sale. In 18C7 a large ma- 
chine shop was built and an iron foundry 
added to the works. Charles P. Dring, who 
had been superintendent of the Fall River 
Iron Works Company's foundry for many 
years, now became a member of this firm, 
the name being changed to Kilburn, Lincoln 
& Co. Mr. Dring was succeeded by his son, 
Cnarles H. Dring, who disposed of his in- 
terest to the other members of the firm in 
1900. In IStiS the business was incorporated, 
Mr. Lincoln's son-in-law, Andrew Luscomb, 
who had been engaged with them in the mak- 
ing of musket parts for the government, was 
added to the firm. The new works com- 
prised a machine shop, iron foundry, brass 
foundry, pattern house, paint shops, ware- 
house and setting-up shop. J. T. Lincoln 
was elected president of the company, and 
ai his death was succeeded by his son, Henry 
C. Lincoln, who was succeeded by Andrew 
Luscomb. On the death of Mr. Luscomb, in 
I'JO;!, Leontine Lincoln succeeded to the 
presidency. Mr. Kilburn was elected treas- 
urer in 18GS and held the position until 1S72. 
when lie withdrew from the company and 
was succeeded in that office by Leontine 
Lincoln. In the same year additions were 
made with a view to the manufacture of 
looms on a large scale, and the company is 
now among the largest makers of looms for 
oolton and silk weaving, turning out about 
.'j.OOO annually. Alxjut two hundred hands 
are employed. J. T. Lincoln, oldest son of 
Leontine Lincoln, is general superintendent. 

Personal sketches of Jonathan T. Lincoln, 
the first, and of Leontine Lincoln, the pres- 
ent president, will be found elsewhere in 
these pages. 

Henry C. Lincoln, the second president, 
was the oldest son of Jonathan T. Lincoln 
and was born In Fall River in 1829. He was 
educated in the public schools of Fall River 



and learned the trade of machinist from his 
lather. Admitted to the business in ISoG, he 
brought to it a practical knowledge of me- 
chanics and a thorough business education. 
He was known as one of the best mechanics 
in the city, and his cool and well-balanced 
mind made him a valuable associate. He 
became largely interested in the great indus- 
tries of the city and was the first presi- 
dent of the Seaconnet mills and at the lime 
of his death a director in the Barnard, Wee- 
tamoe and Union corporations. Although 
frequently solicited, he wa.'! averse to holding 
public positions, although for a long period 
he rendered the city conspicuous service as 
engineer of the fire department. He was 
highly esteemed for his business ability and 
prooity. 

Andrew Luscomb, the third president, was 
born in Taimton in 1832, educated in the pub- 
lic schools of that city, and at the Bristol 
County Academy. He learned the trade of 
machinist in the shops of the Dean Cotton 
«c Machine Company, of Taunton, and for a 
time was In the employ of William .Mason, 
the founder of the Mason Machine Works. 
In March, 1860, he was married to Miss .Mary 
M. Lincoln, daughter of J. T. Lincoln, and in 
18G2 became associated with Kilburn and 
Lincoln in the manufacture of musket parts 
for the United States Government. 

He served the city as Councilman from 
18G7 to 1872 and was Alderman in 1873 and 
1874. He was the first superintendent of flre 
alarms and did much to establish the sys- 
tem throughout the city. He was consid- 
ered one of the most skillful mechanics and 
had large and varied experience in the busi- 
ness of his choice. He had inventive genius 
of high order and was highly esteemed as a 
citizen and friend. 

The Massasoit Manufacturing Company 
was formed to take over the business of W. 
H. & W. E. Turner, of New York City. It 
was incorporated January, 1SS2, "for the pur- 
pose of manufacture of fabricnl goods of all 
kinds, dealing in waste of all kinds and 
preparing same for the market in a manu- 
factured or immanufactured form, and deal- 
ing in merchandise of all kinds," with a capi- 
tal of $.50,000. The incorporators were Wen- 
dell E. Turner, William H. Turner, Frank L. 
Palmer, Edward A. Palmer and Elisha L. 
Palmer. Frank L. Palmer has been presi- 
dent and Wendell E. Turner treasurer 
and general manager respectively since 
the organization of the company. It 
purchased at that time the land and 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



91 



buildings of the Massasoit Steam Mills, 
located on Davol street, and altered it over 
into a cotton waste plant. This purchase in- 
cluded a valuable wharf property and several 
tenement blocks east of the railroad. In 
1S92 the compan.v leased the Oakdale mills 
property at Montville, Conn., and equipped 
the same as a bleachery for raw stock. In 
1893 the capital stock was increased to yi50,- 
UOO. In 1895 the waste plant at the triangle 
formed by Pocasset, Anawan and t'nion 
streets, formerly owned by M. T. Barlow, 
was purchased. 

In 1903 the Eddy mill property of the 
American Woolen Company, adjoining the 
Union mills, was purchased and converted 
into a coarse yarn mill. The business con- 
ducted by the company has been contracting, 
converting and manufacturing cotton and 
cotton waste. It has been prosperous, and 
its trade has been extended throughout the 
United States, Canada and also exports to 
many foreign countries. W^illiam H. Turner 
was a director and the New York City repre- 
sentative of the company from the time 
of its organization until his death, Septem- 
ber 7, 1902. 

Messrs. Frank L. Palmer and Wendell E. 
Turner are also, respectively, president and 
treasurer of the Swansea Dye Works, lo- 
cated just across the river in Swansea. They 
purchased the property of the Swansea 
Bleachery in 1S90, incorporating it under the 
name of the Swansea Dye Works. The 
works have been entirely reconstructed and 
equipped with modern appliances for the 
business of printing, dyeing and finishing 
cotton piece goods. It has been very suc- 
cessful in this line. 

The Kerr Thread Company, which since 
December 31, 1S97, has been a part of the 
American Thread Company, was organized 
in 1S8S by Robert and John P. Kerr, of 
Paisley, Scotland, with an original capital 
of $292,400, subsequently increased to $800,- 
000. A brick mill. 100x131 feet, five storie.s. 
was erected in 1890, with dye and bleach 
houses, and equipped to make fine cotton 
yarn and threads. In 1893 the mill was en- 
larged to 2G0xl31 feet, with an ell IGSxGO 
feet. The plant now contains 48,09G mule 
and 12,840 frame spindles. It employs 1.000 
hands. John P. Kerr was president till 1893, 
when he was succeeded by his son, James 
Kerr. Robert C. Kerr was treasurer during 
the separate existence of the corporation 
and Richard H. Cook superintendent until 
1898, when he became general superintend- 



ent of the American Thread Company. The 
present superintendent is Robert Almond, 
and Mr. James B. Kerr Is agent. 

The Fall River Electric Light Company 
was incorporated in 1883 with a capital of 
$10,000. Weaver Osborn was president, H. 
'I. Bufflnton clerk and treasurer, and Wea- 
ver Osborn, H. T. Buffinlon. E<liward Leigh, 
William B. Hosmer and W. H. Hathaway di- 
rectors. The Edison Electric Illuminating 
Company was formed the same year, with 
$100,000 capital, and was the second com- 
pany in the United States to install the E<ii- 
son system. Al'bert F. Dow was president, 
Henry K. Braley clerk, William H. Dwelly, 
Jr., treasurer, and A. F. Dow, Frank S. 
Stevens, Jerome C. Borden, W. S. Whitney, 
Spencer Borden, James P. Hllliard and 
William H. Dwelly, Jr., directors. The 
companies were consolidated July 1, 189G. 
The capital of $350,000 was increased in May, 
1905, to $G00,0O0, to provide for the building 
of a large plant on the waterfront at the 
foot of Hatha/way street, now under construc- 
tion. Owen Durt'ee is clerk, Albert F. Dow 
treasurer, and E. L. Anthony, George A. Bal- 
lard, Rufus W. Bassett, Jerome C. Borden, 
F. O. Dodge, John D. Flint, Robert S. Goff, 
Oliver S. Hawes and James E. Osborn di- 
rectors. 

The Old Colony Brewing Company was 
formed in 1S95, with a capital of $250,000. 
The officers are the same as at incorporation, 
and are: President, Quinlan Leary; Vice- 
President, L. L. Holden; Secretary, Cor- 
nelius Sullivan; Treasurer, R. F. Haffen- 
reffer, Jr. These, with Thomas F. Splaine, 
George Hindle and Charles Letendre, con- 
stitute the board of directors. The capacity 
of the plant is 100,000 barrels per annum. 

The Enterprise Brewing Company was in- 
corporated in 1893, with $21,000 capital, in- 
creased in 1898 to $150,000. Joseph J. Sex- 
ton. H. G. Myers, H. G. Possner and George 
Wilhelm were the first officers. The present 
officials are: President, IDdmund J. Dela- 
hanty: Treasurer, H. G. Myers; Secretary, 
Nathan Miller; Directors, 'Messrs. Dela- 
hanty, Myers, Miller and C. H. Sears. The 
plant has a capacity of 80,000 barrels per 
annum. 

The King Philip Brewing Company, also 
located here, is about the same size as the 
others. 

The large Estes mills are noted at length 
elsewhere in the biography of John H. Estes. 

Of plants not elsewhere recorded, which 
have been discontinued for one reason or 



92 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



another, one of the most important was the 
Globe Print WoriiS, established in 1829 in 
the old cotton mill erected in 1811. Potter 
& Chadburn were the first owners, followed 
by various others, including Holder Borden, 
until 1853, when the Bay State Print Works 
Company was formed and operated the plant 
till 1858, when it became the property of 
the American Print Works Company. A 
boiler explosion, December 5, 18C7, was fol- 
lowed by a fire which partially destroyed the 
plant. It was at once rebuilt, and ran live 
printing machines until ISTO, when it was 
discontinued. The property was sold to the 
Globe Yarn mills in 1880. 

The Fall River Machine Company, iacor- 
porated in 1880 with fOG.OOO capital, on the 
division of the Fall River Iron Works inter- 
ests, and a few years ago repurchased by the 
Iron Works and its buildings removed to 
make way for new structures, was the out- 
growth of a machinery manufacturing firm 
started as early as 1821 by Harris, Hawes 
& Co., and conducted under various names 
as Oliver S. Hawes, Hawes, Marvel & Davol, 
and Marvel & Davol, till it was absorbed by 
the Iron Works in 1879. The first president 
after incorporation was Jefferson Borden, 
with Robert C. Brown treasurer. In later 
years .lohn S. Brayton was president and 
George H. Bush and Samuel D. Lawton were 
treasurers. 

The Wyoming mills were established by 
Augustus Chace and William B. Traftord in 
1845, and managed by Mr. Chace, and after 
his death by his son, .ludson. The product 
was cotton twine, batting and cotton warp 
and, later, yarn. The plant was discon- 
tinued after a time, and about 1896 the 
buildings -were sold to James Marshall & 
Bros, for their hat factory. 

The Fall River Merino Company was 
formed in 1875, with a capital of $110,000, 
and had a disastrous career. It was de- 
signed for the manufacture of knit goods 
and merino underwear, and erected a brick 
factory in the eastern section of the city, 
but met with continued losses and was final- 
ly abandoned and the property sold. The 
building and land is now owned by a syndi- 
cate. Frank S. Stevens was president, Stth 
H. Wetherbee clerk and Charles E. Bean 
treasurer, while Frank S. Stevens, Foster H. 
Stafford, Robert T. Davis, William Mason, 
Samuel Wadlngton, S. H. Wetherbee, 
Charles E. Bean, Matthew C. Yarwood, 
.lason P. Stone, Jr., and Charles Weil were 
directors. It had 2.1C0 spindles and IS looms. 



In early days there was a considerable tan- 
nery on Bedford street, near the post office, 
operated by Edmund Chase and his son of 
the same name for nearly fifty years after 
1810. Some of the buildings are still stand- 
ing, east of the post office. 

The Fall River Line is one of the things 
in which the residents of Fall River have 
always taken a great pride, on accoant of 
the beauty and high grade of the steamers 
and the notably good record' the vessels have 
made, as well as the thousands of passen- 
gers who pass through on these boats on 
their way from New York to Boston or re- 
turn. The travel is always especially heavy 
tiirough the vacation season, but in winter 
there is also a good traffic. Freight steamers 
are run lin addition to the passenger boats. 
The steamers now on the line or availaible 
when needed include the Providence, Puri- 
tan, Priscilla and Plymouth, which are sup- 
plemented by a number of freighters, the 
largest of which is the new Boston. 

The line was started in 1847, when the 
Bay State Steamiboat Company was formed 
by the Borden family, with a capital of $300,- 
iKKi, and commenced trips between this port 
and Ihe metropolis. The company in course 
of time passed into the control of the Bos- 
ton, Newport and New York Steamboat Com- 
pany, and on the extension of the railroad to 
Newport in 18G4, that city was made the 
eastern terminus of the line until 18(19. when 
the steamers returned to this port and have 
since remained here. James Fiske, Jr., and 
Jay Gould were then the owners of the line, 
and Mr. Fiske, through his striking person- 
ality, did much to draw attention to It. About 
two years later It pa.sse:i into the hands of 
the Old Colony Steamboat Company, con- 
trolled by the Old Colony Railroad Company, 
and remained so until 1905, when it was 
merged in the New England Navigation 
Company, a corporation formed by the New 
York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad 
Company, for holding its marine interests. 
The lease of the Old Colony road to the 
New Haven had for years made the line vir- 
tually a part of the New Haven system, so 
that the change to the new company made 
no appreciable difference. 

A competing line known as the Enterprise 
Transportation Company, started by Worces- 
ter capital, began running steamers to New 
York from a wharf at the foot of Turner 
street in June. 1905. The Frank .Tones was 
Ihe first boat put on the route, and was soon 
followed by the Warren and the Kennebec. 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



93 



The Joy Steamship Company has leased the 
old Providence wharf at the foot of Central 
street, and began a third line July 2 with 
the steamer Tennessee. 

Freight service by water to Philadelpllia 
was begun by the Clyde Line in 187G. The 
Winsor Line now has three sailin.ijs a week 
from this port. The Newport, Providence 
and Fall River Steamboat Company, the 
successor of earlier enterprises established 
by Colonel Richard Borden, in 1827, for 
many years did a large freight and passen- 
ger business between this city and Provi- 




David Anthony (Deceased) 

dence, but the passen,s?er business declined 
after the granting of cheap fares on the elec- 
tric roads. By an a.greement in 1905 the 
freight business was conceded to the D.ver 
Transportation Company, a rival line. The 
Richard Borden was the regular steamer on 
the route for thirty years after its construc- 
tion in 1874. 

The first street railroad lines here were 
built as a horse railway in 1880 by the Globe 
Street Railway Company, a corporation with 
a capital of $100,000. Edward Herbert was 
president, George P. Mellen treasurer, Mar- 
cus G. B. Swift clerk, and Edward Herbert. 
F. H. Stafford. Franklin P. Osborn, S. V. 
BHffins, George F. Mellen, Isaac P. Francis 
and James B. Hilliard directors. The first 
lines were in Main and Pleasant streets, and 
have since been greatly extended and added 
to by the purchase, in April, 1894, of the Fall 
River Street Railway, a short-lived compet- 
ing line running from the corner of North 
Main and Bank streets to the Highlands. 
Electricity was installed as the nioUve power 
in the summer of 1892, and on August 17 the 
first car was run from the Stafford road 
barn to Morgan street. The first car to run 



through the centre of the city made its in- 
augural trip September 2, 1892. Various lines 
to Providence, Taunton, New Bedford and 
Newport meet here and share in the general 
transfer system. The New Bedford line 
ran its first through car July 1, 1894, the 
Newport road in 1898, the Providence line in 
July, 1901, and the Taunton road, which had 
been built some years before, began direct 
service into the city in 1903. Electric street 
sprinkling was begun in 1902, express ser- 
vice to New Bedford in 1903 and to Provi- 
dence in 1905. The company now operates 
about 37 miles of track within the city limits. 
It operates 55 cars on average days, 
with 75 on hoHdays, and employs about 200 
men. A general transfer system has pre- 
vailed from the first, and six tickets for 25 
cents have been sold since the cars were 
allowed to cross Slade's Ferry bridge. The 
local lines have been a part of the Old Col- 
ony Street Railway Company since May, 
1899. 

The Rail River Gas Works Company was 
incorporated in 1880, with a capital of $288,- 
000, on the division of the interests of the 




Jesse Eddy IDci 



jcd) 



Iron Works Comi)any, which had established 
ibo plant in 1847 and supplied the city until 
this time. Jefferson Borden was the first 
president, with George P. Brown treasurer, 
and Jefferson Borden, John S. Brayton. David 
A. Brayton, David A. Brayton, Jr., Richard B. 
Borden, A. S. Tripp ami William B. Durfee di- 
rectors. A change in management look place 
in 18SG, when .John S. Brayton became presi- 
dent, Samuel T. Bodlne treasurer. George P. 
Brown clerk and manager, and John S, Bray- 
ton, A. S. Covel, A. O. Granger, Henry Lewis, 
Samuel T. Bodlne. Randall Morgan and David 
Patton, directors. In 1S9G the company ab- 



94 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



sorbed the Manufacturers' Gas Light Com- 
pany and increased its stock to $450,000. 
Joseph A. Balier then became vice-president 
and Edward C. Lee treasurer. Mr. Brown 
continued a.s clerl\ and manager. 

In 1902 the capital was increased to $G35,- 
tidO, and there was again a change in owner- 
ship. Stone & Webster becoming general 
managers, and the local management being 
placed in charge of J. E. Nute, where it has 
since remained. The increase of the com- 
pany's business has more than kept pace 
with the city's growth. In 1886 there were 
about 1,000 consumers and the annual sales 
were a little in excess of 38,000,000 cubic 
feet. In 1906 there are 10,000 consumers and 
annual sales of nearly 375,000,000 cubic feet. 
This extension of busine.ss has been accom- 
panied by a liberal reduction in cost to the 
con.sumer. Early in 1872 the selling rate was 
$3.75 per 1,000. In 1S8G the average price re- 
ceived was $1.83 per 1,000. In 1896 it was 
$1.30 per 1,000, and in 1906 it is 90 cents. 

Other incorporations include the I'nion 



Belt Company, the Arctic Ice & Cold Stor- 
age Company, incorporated in 1901, with a 
capital of $260,000; W. C. Atwater & Co., 
capital $100,000; Borden, Guiney & Kendall 
Co., incorporated 1901, capita! $24,000; Bor- 
den & Remington Co., Bowenville Coal Co.. 
Coldwell Giklard Co., Davis & .McLane Mfg. 
Co., Bstes Mills, E. S. Anthony Co., E. S. 
Brown Co., Fall River Bobbin & Shuttle 
Company, Fall River Cold Storage Company, 
Fall River Laundry Company, Fall River 
Manufacturers' Mutual Insurance Company, 
Fall River Quarry and Construction Com- 
pany, Fall River Steam and Gas Pipe Com- 
pany, Fraprie-Douglas Co., John F. Johnston 
Co., Heywood Narrow Fabric Company, Me- 
chanics' Foundry and Machine Company, 
North Pond Ice Company, Pioneer Mfg. Co., 
Ponemah Shuttle Company, R. A. McWhirr 
Co., Sherer Dry Goods Company, Textile 
Tube Company, D. H. Cornell Packing Com- 
pany, Frank L. Allen Lumber Company. 
Luther Reed Mfg. Co., and the Thomas Stor- 
age Company. 




County Court Hou»c 



CHAPTER XII 



BANKS AND BANKING 



Honorable and Prosperous Career ot the Institutions, with Long Terms of Service. 
The History of Each 



The banliing interests of Fall River have 
had a long and creditable career. The busi- 
ness has been carried on with as much of 
progressiveness as was consistent with 
sound finance, and has been rewarded by fair 
and in some cases exceptional prosperity. 
In the long period dating from the establish- 
ment of the Fall River Bank, the predeces- 
sor of the Fall River National Bank, nearly 
eighty years ago, there have been no failures 
and, except in once instance, no irregulari- 
ties among responsi'ble officials. Here was 
started in 1S2S one of the first savings banks 
in the countrj — the Fall River Savings, still 
a flourishing institution, and the largest in 
point of deix)sits in the city, but 12 years 
after the founding of the first in the country, 
and here, too, was started one of the first 
five cents savings banks, which is still pros- 
perous and doing a most excellent work in 
encouraging thrift among children and peo- 
ple of the smallest means. These and the 
two other savings banks have been supple- 
mented in recent years by four co-operative 
banks, which have been most valuable in 
bringing the people to systematic husband- 
ing of their incomes and in aiding in building 
homes. 

Prior to 1903, when a State law went into 
effect prohibiting national banking institu- 
tions from occupying rooms with savings 
banks, the number of national banks was 
nearly double that of to-day. The expense 
of separate officials and the renting of other 
rooms that would be necessitated by this 
act, combined with the desire for larger capi- 
tal in order that a bank might under the 
law make heavier loans to single customers, 
like the manufacturing corporations which 
had been obliged to go out of town at times 
for accommodation, as well as other causes, 
led to a combination and the reduction of 
the number of national banks from seven to 
four. The Second National sold Its assets 



to the Metacomet, and liquidated, and the 
Pocasset, the National Union and the .Massa- 
soit united in forming one new bank known 
as the Massasoit-Pocasset. The four na- 
tional banks had on April G, 190G, a com- 
bined capital of $2,100,000, with deposits of 
$4,S21,1.56, loans and discounts of $0,979,857. 
and a total of surplus and undivided profits 
of $1,243,786. 

The combined deposits of the four sav- 
ings banks here, with approximately 47,400 
depositors, amount to about $20,000,000. The 
number of depositors has grown during the 
last 20 years from 21,449 to 47,400, and the 
amount of the deix)sits has doubled, making 
an average yearly gain of $500,000. 

Trust companies have not been formed 
here, except in one instance, that of the B. 
M. C. Durfee Safe Deposit & Trust Com- 
pany, organized in 1SS7, which has a capital 
of $400,000 and deposits of $1,800,000. 

The Clearing House here was established 
in 1892 and has handled sums running as 
high as $51,326,000, in 1902, with balances 
of $14,125,000. 

There have been some notably long terms 
of service at the head of banking institu- 
tions. Charles J. Holmes, the first head of 
the Five Cents Savings Bank, served more 
than half a century till his death early in 
190G. Edward E. Hathaway has been treas- 
urer of the Citizens' Savings Bank for 44 
years, and was for 41 years also the cashier 
of the Pocasset National: Ferdinand H. Gif- 
ford has ibeen cashier and later president of 
the Fall River National since 1873; and 
Charles A. Bassett treasurer of the Fall 
River Savings since 1877. .John S. Braylon 
was president of the First National from (he 
date of its organization In 18(15 until his 
death in 1904. Numerous instances could be 
cited of long and faithful services on boards 
of directors or investment. With this brief 
introduction, the history of the various instl- 



96 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



lutions is best sketched by taking each by 
itself. 

Tlie Fall River Savings Bank, easily the 
largest in amount of deposits in the city, is 
likewise the oldest of the savings banks. It 
was chartered in 1828 by Oliver Chace, 
James Ford, Harvey Chace, Clark Shove, 
Bradford Durfee and others as the Fall River 
Institution for Savings. Micah H. Ruggles 
was the first president and James Ford 
treasurer. Business began May 28, 1828. In 
April, 1855, the name was changed to the 
present title. Mr. Ruggles was president 
till 1857, when he was succeeded by N. B. 
Borden and h'e by Job French in 18G5. Wil- 
liam Lindsey, the next president, was fol- 
lowed in 1888 by A. S. Tripp, who died the 
same year. Crawford E. Lindsey. elected in 
1889, was followed in 189 1 by Thomas J. Bor- 
den, and on his death, in 1902, by Robert 
Henry. The bank's business was originally 
carried on in the office of James Ford, the 
treasurer. In 1830 it was removed to the 
store of Hawkins & Fish, on the southeast 
corner of Main and Bedford streets, as 
William H. Hawkins had succeeded Mr. 
i^ord in the treasurership. Mr. Hawkins 
was followed in 1833 'by Henry H. Fish and 
in 183G by Joseph P. Lindsey, who held 
officu for more than forty years. On his 
retirement in 1877, Charles A. Bassett, who 
had been cashier of the First National for 
thirteen years, became treasurer, and is 
still in office. The business had been car- 
ried on in Mr. Fish's store till 1841, when 
it removed to a small ibuilding in the rear 
of the old post-office on Pocasset street. 
After about a year it removed to the base- 
ment of Ur. Nathan Durfee's house, on North 
Main street. This was burned in the fire 
of 18-13, and a private dwelling was occu- 
pied till the next January, when it occupied 
the present quarters of the Five Cents Sav- 
ings Bank, in the Mt. Hope block, erected 
on the site of its former office. It removed 
to its present 'building in 1869. In its early 
years the bank paid dividends running as 
high as 8 per cent, and it has never passed 
a dividend but once, in 1879, following the 
troubles in several mills. This, however, 
was made up by an extra dividend in 1882. 
At that time the average dividen<l since or- 
ganisation had been C per cent. The bank 
has deposits of |8,000.ono and 10,500 de- 
positors. Henry C. Hawkins, Robert Henry. 
Charles M. Allen, L. Elmer Wood and David 
.1. Burdick are the board of Investment. 

The Metaconiet National Hank was incor- 



porated as The Metacomet Bank of Fall 
River in 1853, by Richard and Jefferson 
Borden and Daniel Brown, with a capital of 
^400,000, and began business in December 
of that year in a building erected for it by 
the Fall River Iron Works Company at the 
corner of Anawan and Water streets. By 
agreement, the rent was to be $350 a year, 
for ten years. The first board of directors 
consisted of Richard, Jefferson and Philip 
D. Borden, Nathan Durfee, William Carr, 
Daniel Brown, Joseph Crandall, Wilfiam 
Lindsey and William Marvel. Jefferson 
Borden was elected president, Azariah S. 
Tripp, cashier, at $1,000 a year, and George 
B. Durfee teller, at $000. The capital was 
increased to $000,000 in 1854, later reduced 
to $500,000, and in 1906 raised to $750,000. 
It became a National bank in February, 
1865, and in 1876 removed to the Borden 
block, corner of South Main and Pleasant 
streets. The present building was erected 
in 1888. Mr. Borden was succeeded as 
president by William Lindsey in 1880, by 
Walter C. Durfee in 1886, by Frank S. 
Stevens in 1894, by Thomas J. Borden May 
16, 1898, and by Simeon B. Chase on Decem- 
ber 10, 1902. Mr. Tripp was followed as 
cashier by George H. Borden February 20, 
18SS. Mr. Borden resigned and was suc- 
ceeded by Charles B. Cook, the present cash- 
ier, January 5, 1891. The bank purchased 
the good will and business of the Second 
National February 5, 1903. It has been very 
successful, especially during the last fifteen 
years. The directors are S. B. Chase, Mil- 
ton Reed, James Marshall, William R. War- 
ner, Arthur H. Mason, Joseph O. Neill, 
Robert S. Goff, George H. Hills. William 
H. Jennings, R. F. Haffenreffer, Jr., Rufus 
W. Bassett, John P. Bodge, Herbert C. Tal- 
bot, E. B. Remington, Charles B. Cook. 

The First National Bank, the first to be 
formed under the Federal banking laws in 
this section, was organized January 23, 1864. 
with a capital of $200,000, increased the 
following year to $400,000, the present fig- 
ure. John S. Brayton, the first president, 
held office till his death in 1904, when he 
was succeeded by his son, John S. Brayton. 
Charles A. Bassett. the first cashier, was 
followed in 1877 by Hezekiah A. Brayton, in 
18S0 by C. E. Hendrickson and In 1SS7 by 
Everett M. Cook, the present cashier. Its 
first office was at the southwest corner of 
Main and Central streets, from which it re- 
moved to its present building in May, 1888. 
It is a United States depositary. The dl- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



97 



rectors are James M. Morton, Thomas E 
Brayton, Edward L. Anthony, Andrew Bor- 
den. David A. Brayton, Jr., James M. Mor- 
ton, Jr., Israel Brayton and John S. Brayton. 
The B. M. c. Durfee Safe Deposit & 
Trust Company, chartered by an act of the 
Legislature of Massachusetts in KSS7, com- 
menced business with a capital of floonoo 
on July a, ISSS. This capital was subse- 
quently increased to $200,000 and afterwards 
to $400,000. According to the provisions of 
Its charter and subsequent acts of the Legis- 
lature, it is empowered to do a general bank- 
ing business, act as trustee for estates and 
individuals, to be executor, administrator 
and guardian, to receive and hold for safe 
keeping moneys, papers and articles of 
value. This company took over the entire 
business of B. M. C. Durfee & Companv. a 
banking house formed by the partnership of 
B. M. C. Durfee and John S. Brayton. John 
S. Brayton was President of the Trust 
Company from the time it began business 
until his death in 1901. Arthur W. Allen 
was its first and is its prt^s^nt Treasurer. 
The Directors are James M. Morton, Thomas 
E. Brayton, Edward L, Anthony, Byron W. 
Anthony. George A. Ballard. Andrew" Borden. 
David A. Brayton, Jr., Frederick O. Dodge. 
James M. Morton, Jr., Israel Brayton and 
John S. Brayton. 
The National Union Bank, chartered in 

1823 as the Bristol Union Bank of Bristol, 
R.I., had a varied history. It began business in 

1824 with a capital of $10,000. soon increased 
to $40,000. In 1830 it was moved to Tiver- 
ton and its name changed to the Pall River 
Union Bank. It erected the brick building 
on the corner of South Main and Rodman 
streets in 1837, and there carried on busi- 
ness till 18fi2, when the change in the State 
Ime brought it in under Massachusetts laws 
and it removed to the present City Hall 
building. If became The National Union 
Bank in lS(i.5. and removed to No. 3 Main 
street, where it occupded the Union Savings 
Bank building, which was torn down and 
a new one erected by the Union Savings 
Bank in 1897. Barnabas Bates and Parker 
Borden -were early presidents, the latter 
holding office till 1838. when he was suc- 
ceeded by David Durfee. and in 184fi by 
Nathaniel B. Borden. Jesse Eddy became 
president in 1S05. Cook Borden in 1874, Dan- 
iel Wilbur in 1880 and Thomas B. Covel in 
1S9G. Nathaniel Wordell and Josiah Good- 
ing, the early cashiers, were followed by 
William Coggeshall, who held office till 1860. 



Daniel Chapln, Mr. Coggeshall's successor, 
resigned in ISSS and was succeded by John 
T. Burrell. who remained cashier till the 
l)ank was merged in the new Massasoit-Po- 
casset NaUonal in 1903. 

The Union Savings Bank was incorporated 
in 1SG9 and began business in May of that 
year in the southwest corner of the 
City Hall, or Market Building, removing in 
1872 to property it had purchased on Main 
street, where it erected its present building 
in 1897. Gardner T. Dean, Edwin Shaw, La- 
fayette Nichols and others were the incor- 
porators and organization was effected by 
electing Augustus Chace president and D. 
A. Chapin treasurer. Augustus Chace died 
in March, 1880. Benjamin Covel was elected 
president May 2G. 1S8G. Mr. Covel resigned 
in November. 1888. and Andrew J. Borden 
was chosen president. Mr. Borden died in 
August, 1892. and .Terome C. Borden was 
chosen president, which office he still holds. 
Daniel A. Chapin was treasurer from dale 
of organization to September 29. 1KS8 when 
he resigned. 

Jerome C. Borden was chosen treasurer 
October G, 1888. and served to March 1. 1891 
when he resigned, and Abraham G. Hart was 
chosen treasurer, which office ho still holds 
Within the last fifteen years the deposits of 
this bank have trebled, and its progress has 
heen as notable as that of the other savings 
banks of the city. It now has deposits of 
$2,500,000. and 4,500 depositors. The board 
of investment consists of Jerome C. Bonlen 
A. Homer Skinner, Cyrus C. Rounseville 
Fred O. Dodge and Thomas D. Covel. 

The Citizens' Savings Bank was incor- 
porated by the Rhode Isli;m] General Assem- 
bly in 1851 as "The Savings Bank." to be 
located in Tiverton, with Oliver Chace. Jr 
Cook Borden. Thomas Borden. Clark S. iwan- 
chester and their as.sociates incorporators. 
It was organized November 15. 1851. with 
.Joseph Osborn president. Charles F Searle 
secretary and William H. Brackett treas- 
urer. It began business December 1 of that 
year in the office of the Fall River Union 
Bank, and in June. 1854. was remove.l to 
the latter's building at the corner of South 
Main and Rodman streets. The change In 
the boundary line in 18G2 brought tt into 
Massachusetts, and an enabling act was 
secured from the Legislature permitting if 
lo do business in this State. If then took its 
present name and was removed with fhe 
Pocasset Bank to fhe northwest corner of 
what is now fhe city hall. In .lanitar.v. 1873, 



98 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



il occupied its present quarters in the Po- 
casset National Bank building. Edward E. 
Hathaway, the present treasurer, succeeded 
Air. Brackett in December, 1862. Joseph Os- 
born, the first president, was followed by 
Linden Cook, and Danforth Horton in 1883, 
Joseph Healy in 1884 and John C. Milne in 
1889. The bank has the remarkable record 
of never having passed a dividend, and has 
paid an average of nearly 5 per cent 
since its organization. It has deposits of 
about $4,500,000 and 7,400 depositors. John 
C. Milne, Henry H. Earl, Wni. F. Thomas, 
Samuel W. Hathaway and Jamts M. Swift 
constitute it« board of investment. 

The Fall River Five Cents Savings Bank, 
which has done a notable work in caring for 
the small savings of the working people, 
dates from April 10, 1855, when it was in- 
corporated by S. Angler Chace, Hale Rem- 
ington, Walter C. Durfee, James Uuffinton, 
E. P. Buffinton, B. H. Davis, Asa P. French 
and Alvan S. Ballard. Business began Jauu 
ary 1, 185G, and the first dividend was paid 
in June of that year. During its 50 years 
of existence the bank has (April, 1906) paid 
99 dividends at rates ranging from 4 to 8 
per cent, per annum, and aggregating 250 
per cent, of the deposits, making an aver- 
age yearly dividend of 5 per cent. During 
these years the deposits have shown an 
average yearly increase of $100,000. The 
present number of depositors is 19,022, with 
an average deposit of $263 and a total of J5.- 
007,600. S. Angler Chace, the first president, 
was succeeded by Walter C. Durfee in 1878 
and by Leontine Lincoln in 1902. Charles J. 
Holmes was treasurer from the opening of 
the bank until his death, February 26. 1906, 
a period of more than 50 years, and was 
.succeeded on March 17, 1906, by his son, 
Charles L. Holmes. Abner P. Davol. Edward 
B. Jennings. Holder B. Durfee, Leontine Lin- 
coln and Charles S. Waring constitute the 
Ixjard of investment. 

The Fall River National Bank, for twenty 
years the only bank of discount in the vil- 
lage of Fall River, was incorporated in 1825 
by Oliver Chace. David Anthony, Bradford 
Durfee, Richard Borden. N. B. Borden and 
others. The capital, originally $100,000. was 
Increased in 1827 to $200,000, in 1836 to $400.- 
000. in 1844 reduced to $3.-.n.OOO, and In 1864 
iHcreased again lo $400.000, the pre.sent 
figure. David Anthony, the first president, 
served 40 years, till 1865, when he was suc- 
ceeded by Richard Borden. At his death, in 
1874, he was followed by Ciiilfonl II. Hatha- 



way, and he in 1895 by Ferdinand H. Giftord, 
who had been cashier since 1873. Matthew 
C. Durfee, the first cashier, held office till 
1836. Henry H. Fish, his successor, till 
1863, George R. Piske till 1873, and Ferdi- 
nand H. Gifford till his election as president 
in 1895, when George H. Eddy, Jr., 'became 
cashier. The bank was organized as a 
national institution in 1864. Its first build- 
ing was erected of brick, on the corner of 
Main and Bank streets, in 1826. This was 
burned in the fire of 1843, and soon after- 
wards rebuilt. The present building was 
erected in 1892. The bank began the pay- 
ment of interest on deposits in 1892. Its 
present directors are Richard B. Borden, 
Herbert Field, Wendell E. Turner, Ferdi- 
nand H. Gifford, Oliver S. Hawes, George 
H. Eddy, Jr.. Leonard N. Slade, Spencer Bor- 
den, Jr., and Asa A. Mills. 

The Pocasset National Bank was incor- 
porated in Rhode Island in May, 1854, with 
Moses Baker, Oliver Chace and Joseph Os- 
born named as incori)orators, and b^an 
business at the corner of South Main and 
Rodman streets, renio\ing to the present 
City Hall Building when the boundary line 
was changed, in 1862. It became a National 
bank in 1865, and in 1868 purchased the lot 
at the southeast corner of Main and Bed- 
ford streets, on which, in 1872. it erected a 
handsome granite building. Oliver Chace, 
the first iiresident, was succee<led in 1862 'by 
Samuel Hathaway, in 1873 by Weaver Os- 
born, in 1894 by Joseph Healy. and in 1901 
by George W. Slade. William H. Brackett, 
the first cashier, was followed in 1862 by 
Edward E. Hathaway, who held office till 
the bank was merged in the new Massasoit- 
Pocasset National in 1903. 

The Second National Bank was incor- 
porated in 1856 as the Wamsutta Bank, with 
a capital of $100,000, by S. Angler Chace, 
Hale Remington and William Mason, 2d. Mr. 
Chace was elected president and Charles J. 
Holmes. Jr.. cashier. It became the Second 
National Bank in 1864. and increased its cap- 
ital to $150,000. Mr. Chace resigned as 
liresident in 1878. and was succeeded by 
Thomas F. Eddy. Leontine Lincoln became 
president in 1SS7. Mr. Holmes continued as 
ca.shior until the bank was purchase<l by the 
Melacomct National and merged in that in- 
stitution in February, 1903. 

The Massas<i|t Bank was organized June 2. 
1.S46, and began business in December with 
a capital of $50,000, Increased the follov»ing 
March to $10(1.00(1. in January. 1S54. to $200,- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



99 



000, and July 2. 1892, to $300,000. Jason H. 
Archer was the first president and Leander 
Boraeu cashier, with J. H. Archer, Oliver 
&. Hawes, Azariah Shove, Nathan Durfee, 
Henry Willard, Iram Smith and Benjamin 
Wardwell directors. Mr. Archer was suc- 
ceeded as president in 1S52 by Israel Buffin- 
ton. in KSG4 l^y Charles P. Stickney, in hSTS 
by Irani Smith, in 1SS5 by Bradford D. Davol, 
and in 1S90 by Charles M. Shove. The banli 
had become a national institution in Decem- 
ber. 1S(J4. Its first office was at the comer 
of North Main and Franklin streets, from 
which it removed to the northeast corner of 
Main and Bedford streets in 1S7G. In 1S,S4 it 
removed to the northwest corner of Bedford 
street and Court Square, and in 1889 erected 
the building now occupied by its successor, 
the Massasoit-Pocasset National. Leander 
Borden, the first cashier, was followed in 
18S1 by Eric W. Borden, who remained in 
office till he became cashier of the Massa- 
soit-Pocasset, in 1903. 

The Massasoit-Pocasset National Bank 
was organized in July, 1903, by the consolida- 
tion of the Massasoit and Poeasset National 
banks, and the National Union Bank, with 
a capita! of $650,000. Charles M. Shove, who 
had been president of the Massasoit, and E. 
W. Borden, cashier, were elected to the same 
positions in the new institution. Thomas D. 
Covel, president of the National Union, and 
Edward E. Hathaway, cashier of the Poeas- 
set. were elected vice-presidents, and John 
T. Burrell, cashier of the National Union, 
was made assistant cashier. The present 
directors are: Charles M. Shove, Edward 
a. Hathaway. Thomas D. Covel, Edward S. 
Adams, Edward Barker, N. B. Borden. S. A. 
Borden, C. D. Burt, J. A. Chadwick. W. b' 
M. Chace. B. D. Davol. G. S. Davol. B. S. C. 
Gifford. C. S. Greene. M. T. Hudner. Leon- 
tine Lincoln, J. C. Milne, J. E. Oslxirn. G. 
W. Slade, R. W. Thurston, M. M. Wordell. 
The bank occupies the rooms formerly used 
by the Massa.soit National, which have been 
enlarged and improved to accommodate tho 
increased business* 

Troy Co-Operative Bank.— A meeting to 
organize the first cooperative bank in this 
city was held in room 5. Troy Building. June 
15, 18S0, by the subscribers to an agreement 
to form a corporation to be known as the 
Troy Co-Operative Savings Fund and I^an 
Association. Among the subscribers to this 
agreement were Cyrus C. Rounseville. Spen- 
cer Borden, Jerome C. Borden, John M. 



Young, Albert F. Dow, Nathaniel B. Borden, 
Waller R. Woodman and 77 others. 

A code of by-laws was adopted and the 
following officers elected: President. Spen- 
cer Borden; Vice-President, Albert F. Dow; 
Secretary. Cyrus C. Rounsevflle; -Preasurer, 
Henry T. Bufflnton. Eleven directors were 
also elected at this meeting. The first meet- 
ing of the directors was held June 18, 1880. 
Arnold B. Sanford, Jerome C. Borden and 
Andrew J. Borden were nominated and con- 
firmed as the Security Committee, and John 
-M. Young. Charles B. Cook and Seth H. 
Wetherbee as the Finance Committee. 

The association was now fully organized, 
and on July 18, 1880, the first public meet- 
ing for the transaction of bu.sinoss was held. 
$325 were received in subscriptions for 
fihares, and the association started upon 
what has since proved a successful career. 
In 1883, by act of the General Court, the 
name "Building and I^an Association." in 
•Massachusetts, was changed to "Ct)-Opera- 
tive Bank," and the Troy Co-Operalive Bank 
IS the name familiar to all. although many 
of the original shareholders still speak of 
it as the "Troy Loan." The bank has alwavs 
been popular with the working men and 
women of the city, for whose benefit it was 
organized, as its many borrowers and the 
large demand for its shares attest. 

Since its incorporation the bank has had 
fnree presidents, three vice-presidents and 
tnree secretaries. The presidents have been: 
Spencer Borden. 1880 to 1883; Andrew J 
Borden, 1883 to 1887; Jerome C. Borden. 
1887, and continues in office. Vice-presi- 
dents: Albert P. Dow, 1880 to 1885; .lerome 
i^. Borden, 1885 to 1887; Cyrus C. Rounse- 
ville, 1887, and continues in office. Secre- 
taries: Cyrus C. Rotmseville. 1880 to 1887; 
Charles B. Cook. 1,SS7 lo 1891; George H. 
Eddy, Jr.. 1891, and continues in office. 

Of the original directors four have re- 
mained with the bank and helped to guide its 
destinies from its organization. They are 
Jerome C. Borden, the present president: 
Cyrus C. Rounseville, the present vice-presi- 
dent; John M. Young, the chairman of (he 
present Security Comniittpe, and Albert F. 
Dow, a member of the present board ■-' 
directors. The Troy Is now one of the 
largest, as well as one of the strongest of the 
co-operative banks of the State, its a.ssets 
amounting to nearly $7oo,ooo. and Its direc- 
tors, bolh present and past, may well take 
pride in its growth and prosperity, to the 
accomplishment of which they have given 



Lora 



too 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



gratuitously so much of their time and 
talents. The present officers are: Jerome C. 
Borden, president; Cyrus C. Rounseville, 
vice-president; George H. Eddy, Jr., sec- 
retary and treasurer. Directors; John M. 
Young, Thomas D. Covel, James E. O Con- 
nor, James E. McCreery, Albert F. Dow, 
Walter R. Woodman, James H. French, 
Leonard N. Slade, Jacob Fash, Samuel 6. 
Read and George Grinife; Security Commit- 
tee, John M. Young, Thomas D. Covel and 
Jacob Fash; Finance Committee, James E. 
O'Connor, James H. French and Walter R. 
Woodman; Auditors, Charles F. Fish, Frank 
B. Albro and Harry L. French; Attorneys, 
Swift & Grime. 

The Lafayette Co-Operative Bank was or- 
feauized April 0, 1894, to promote regular and 
systematic savings by people of small or 
moderate incomes and to help them if they 
desired to secure homes of their own. Since 
the first series of shares was issued. May 2, 
1894, $3G7,339 has been received in monthly 
deposits, ranging from $1 to ?25, of which 
1244,339 has been withdrawn or returned to 
the shareholders, leaving a present balance 
of deposits $123,000. Dividends averaging 
5.47 per cent have been credited, amounting 
to $44,855.40, and 189 real estate loans have 
been made, aggregating $306,700. The pres- 
ent number of shares in force, covering 23 
series, is 2,870. Shares in the first series, 
matured, that is, reached the value of $200 
each May 1, 190G, when $144 represented the 
monthly payments of $1 each and the bal- 
ance profits. The first president was Dr. J. 
B. Chagnon, who served until his removal 
from the city in 1899, when he was suc- 
ceeded by Pierre F. Peloquin, the present 
head of the institution. N. P. Berard has 
served continuously as vice-president since 
1894. John B. Huard has been chairman of 
the Security Committee since the organiza- 
tion. His [)resent associates are Nathan 
Miller and Philippe A. Brosseau. Arthur S. 
Phillips, Esq., has served as attorney, and 
William F. Winter as secretary-treasurer 
during the twelve years of the bank's his- 
tory. Of the original directors, four are still 
members of the board — ,Tohn B. Huard, An- 
loine Giroux, Arthur S. Phillips and Frank 
H. Borden. The other menvbers of the pres- 
ent board are Theodule Gamache, Reuben C. 
Small. Jr., Charles E. Peloquin. Homer 
Barre, Nathan Miller, Arthur B. Brayton. 
William Marshall, Alfred L. I.otourneau. 
l'l)llii)pe A. Brosseau and A S Kiirliidii. 'I'll" 



monthly meetings are held at the rooms ol 
the Metacomet National Bank. 

The Fall River Co-Operative Bank, the 
third of its Idnd in the city, was organized 
November 20, 1S88, chartered December 1, 
and began business December 12. It had its 
origin somewhat from the demand for in- 
creased banking facilities 'by residents in 
the eastern section of the city. At the time 
of its organization both a savings bank and 
a national bank were proposed for Flint Vil- 
lage, but neither seemed altogether feasible. 
The desire for additional banking facilities, 
however, was not given up, and a co-opera- 
tive bank, with its main office in the centre 
of the city and a branch office at Flint Vil- 
lage for making collections was considered. 
This met with the favor of a large number of 
residents of that locality, and they were 
largely represented in the organization and 
management of the bank from the beginning. 
The first officers were as follows: President, 
.lohn Barlow; Vice-President. Eric W. Bor- 
den; Secretary. George O. Lathrop; Treas- 
urer. Rodolphus N. Allen; Directors. Henry 
W. Davis. George N. Durfee, Frank H. 
Dwelly. Charles i- . Tripp. Reuben Hargraves. 
Alfred H. Hood. William J. Wiley. Rufus B. 
Hilliard. John Duff. Henry C. Hampton. 
Henry Waring, Hugh McGraw. Enoch J. 
French. Arba N. Lincoln, Roland W. Chi- 
vers. The meeting for organization was held 
in the rooms of the Massasoit National Bank, 
then at 33 Bedford street, and all subse- 
quent meetings of the corporation have been 
held in the rooms of that bank, which has 
also been the depositary of the funds. From 
the commencement of business it has usually 
found ready investment for its receipts, and 
now has assets of over $400,000. with a guar- 
antee fuml and surplus of $l(i.O(io. and a 
membership of about 1.000. holding 8.700 
shares. In the early years of its history it 
sought to make collections convenient by 
branch offices at Flint Village and Somer- 
set, but these were discontinued after a few 
years. There has been little change in the 
management. .Tohn Barlow served as presi- 
dent until his death, in 1899. when he was 
succeeded by Eric W. Borden. Lincoln & 
Hood have been attorneys for the bank since 
its formation and the treasurer first chosen 
is .still in office. George O. Lathrop. the 
secretary, resigned in 190(i a»d was suc- 
ceeded by Prank Westgate. 

The People's Co-Operative Bank was 
organized February 18. 1882. as the People's 
C<i-^)perative Saving Fuml & Loan Associa- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



lOt 



tion. the litle being subsequently chaiigod lo 
the i)rcstnt one to comply with the Slate law. 
lae following were the original officers: 
President, Milton Reed; Vice-President, 
Joseph O. Neill; Secretary, Samuel W. 
orown; Treasurer, Frederick O. Dodge; 
Directors, Robert Howard, Charles E. Mills, 
Silas B. Hatch, Joseph Clifton, Edward S. 
Adams, John \V. Whitaker. Ceorge Hanson, 
Edward A. Mott, John T. Robertson. Reuben 
Hargraves, John F. Hamlet, Peter Heeham, 
A. H. Martine, John H. Estes and Samuel 
Hyde. Business was begun on March 1,5 of 
the same year. The first meetings of the 
bank were held at the office of Milton Reed, 
in the Granite Block, and later in the old 
G. A. R. hall in the Borden Block, No. 1 Bed- 
ford street, the office of F. O. Dodge in the 
Metacomet Bank Building, and the office of 
Samuel Hadfield, in the Granite Block. The 
directors finally decided that it was for the 
best interest of the bank to have an office 
upon some ground floor, where the business 
of the depositors could receive attention dur- 
ing the usual banking hours, as it hart been 
the custom for all depositors to pay their 
dues and interest on the single day of the 
meeting in each month, and in May, 1,S95. the 
bank was moved to its present location. No. 
GO Bedford street. There have been only 
two presidents — Milton Reed and .John H. 
Estes, the latter the present officer of the 
bank and one of the original directors. 
Charles E. Mills is the only other original 
director who is now an officer of the bank. 
The present officers are: President, John H. 
Estes: Vice-President. George N. Durfee; 
Secretary and Treasurer. Charles H. Durfee: 



.Vuditors, George P. Brown, John W. Bury 
and Ralph VV. Reynolds, Directors, John H. 
Estes, Abner P. Davol, Patrick Kieran, Caleb 
C. Potter, Fenner C. Brownell, James B. Clif- 
ton. Manuel P. Camara, Charles E. Mills, J. 
Edmund Estes, Charles H. Durfee, M. 
Sweeney, James E. Sullivan, Adelard Re- 
naud. Archibald McDougall and Tnomas B. 
Rounds; Security Committee, John H. 
Estes, Abner P. Davol, Patrick Kieran, 
.Michael Sweeney and Charles H. Durfee; Fi- 
nance Committee, J. Edmund Estes, Fenner 
C. Brownell, Charles E. Mills, C. C. Potter 
and J. B. Clifton; Attorney, L. E. Wood. 

The report of the directors in 1905 
showed assets of $292,i)91.70, with dues capi- 
tal, $240,049; profits capital, $44,109.94; for- 
feited shares, $35. 8U; surplus and reserve 
fund, $8,399.90. 

The number of shareholders on October 
31, 1905, was 5N,S. The first intention of the 
bank is to assist worthy people in building 
their own homes, and liberal loans are 
granted to such applicants, but the Invest- 
ment Committee has always discouraged ap- 
plications from borrowers on large tenement 
blocks, and has invested most of funds in 
pi-operty well within the city limits. The 
institution has been extremely prosperous 
during the last few years, most of its money 
having been invested in mortgages cover- 
ing property in the very best sections. The 
regular dividends are paid at the rate of 
r. per cent, per annum. 

The shares of the bank are i.ssued in May 
and November of each year, and no one per- 
son is allowed to subscribe for more than 
25 shares. 




CHAPTER XIII 



LAW, MEDICINE AND THE PRESS 



E.irly .ind Present Lawyers and Physicians. The &)urt House and Hospitals. 
The Newspapers 



Tin- hill- (>r Kail River is unusually .stions;. 
belter liainca for its duties than in many 
cities, alert, active and generally equipped 
for any branch of the practice which it may 
be called on to undertake. The exigencies of 
life have kept the members down to their 
profession, and they have clung to their work 
with remarkable tenacity, seldom branching 
off to directorships of corporations or the 
management of trust estates, as in many 
places. The quick, nervous, plastic nature 
of the demands upon them has cultivated 
an unusual readiness, and has developed 
numerous able trial lawyers. The bar is 
now represented on the supreme bench by 
two justices — James .\1. Morton and Henry 
K. Braley. Another of its members, James F. 
Jackson; is chairman of the Board of Rail- 
road Commissioners. L. Elmer Wood is a 
member of the Bar Examiners. David F. 
Slade was long a member of the Governor's 
Council and James M. Swift is District At- 
torney. It has also furnished seven of the 
li) mayors of the city — Josiah C. Blaisdell, 
Henry K. Braley, Milton Reed, John W. 
Cummings, James F. Jackson, George Grime 
and John T. Coughlin, the present head of 
tlie municipal government. Fall River has 
also furnished the clerk of courts for this 
county for many years in .John S. Brayton. 
Simeon Borden and the latter's son of I he 
same name. 

In the period prior to 1877 no sessions of 
the Superior Court were held here; the city 
was small, and the membership of the local 
bar consequently limited, but a number of 
lawyers of high ability were to be found 
among tlu' number. One was Ellab Williams, 
a native of Raynham and a graduate of 
Brown in the class of 1S21. He began prac- 
tice in Diglilon, then removed to Swansea, 
and in 1K33 came to this city to become 
the partner of He/.ekiah Batlelle, a con- 
nection that continued for 20 years, dur- 



ing which the firm became one of the best 
icnovn in the county and built up a large 
practice. Mr. Williams was a man of very 
striking personality, very deliberate in 
speech and severe in thought, a follower of 
exactitude, the enemy of all confusion. He 
was noted for his skill in the drawing of 
legal papers, in which he seldom used the 
printed forms. He followed the old prac- 
tice of being early and late in his office, and 
prepared his cases with the utmost thor- 
oughness. He was shy. had a high, squeaky 
voice and was always exceedingly decorous. 
He was a fine type of the old-fashioned, 
Puritan gentleman and was of high char- 
acter and pure life. He died in 1880, at the 
age of seventy-seven. His home was on 
North Main street, in the dwelling now the 
office of Dr. Hyde. His partner, Mr. Battelle, 
was also a graduate of Brown, in ISlli: had 
studied law in the office of Hercules Cush- 
man, "the leading attorney of Freetown," 
and after brief periods of practice there and 
in Swansea, remove<l to this city in 1827. 
Like his colleague, Mr. Williams, he was a 
learned, painstaking lawyer, with a severe, 
logical cast of mind, and keen intellect. He 
was attorney for the Watuppa Reservoir Co.. 
a member of the Legislature and actively in- 
terested in the settlement of the boundary 
dispute. He had a tall, sinewy, erect and 
impressive figure, was one of the founders of 
the Unitarian Society and spent the last 
years of his life in translating the New Tes- 
tament from the Greek. His death oc- 
curred in 1S72. at the age of 82, at his home 
on Purchase street, now the parish house of 
the Church of the Ascension. 

James Ford, likewise a graduate of Brown, 
was a native of Milton and came here in 
1819. He was an excellent lawyer, a mem- 
ber of the Legislature, Board of Aldermen 
and School Committee, special Police Justice 
for twenty years, the first treasurer of the 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



103 



Kail River Savings llaiilv, editor of Che 
Monitor for a quarter of a century anil one of 
the charter members of Mount Hope I^dge. 
He was a public-sipirited citizen and lived 
until July 27, 1873. 

Judge Louis Lapham, a Rhode Islander 
with a natural taste for politics, and an ar- 
dent Democrat, came here in 1840. His 
readiness in debate soon brought him into 
public affairs. He was a Judge of the po- 
lice court from 1852 to 187o, when it was 
abolished. 

Charles Holmes, father of the late Hon. 
Charles J. Holmes, and Frederick A. Boomer 
were other attorneys of prominence in the 
earlier days here. The latter was a member 
of the Legislature and for many years served 
on the School Committee. He was three 
times City Solicitor, and died in 1871 at the 
age of iifty years. In more recent years local 
attorneys of prominence, now deceased, have 
included John Jason Archer, a son of Dr. Ja- 
son H. Archer, a graduate of Brown in 180G 
and a special justice of the district court; 
Josiah C. Bhiisdell, mayor in 1858 and 1859 
and justice of the Second District Court from 
its establishment in 1874 until 1893, an 
energetic, active man, who was prominent 
here for a generation; and Marcus G. B. 
Swift, of the firm of Swift & Grime, a good 
lawyer and citizen, and one of the board of 
investment of the Citizens' Savings Bank. 
There were also the late John S. Brayton, 
formerly clerk of the Superior and Supreme 
Judicial Courts of Bristol County, better 
known as a banker, for a time the partner of 
Justice Morton, and Simeon Borden, long 
the honored clerk of the Superior and Su- 
preme Courts. 

The courts for this county were held in 
Taunton and New Bedford until 1877, when 
the Legislature authorized adjournments to 
this city. The first session was held here 
June 27, 1877, in a large hall which had been 
fitted up in the new Borden Block, with 
Hon. P. Emory Aldrich presiding. Appro- 
priate addresses were made by several mem- 
bers of the bar and a response by the presid- 
ing judge. 

The erection of the present court house 
was authorized by the Legislature in 1887. 
A site on Rock street was purchased, but the 
opposition was so strong that this was aban- 
doned and the present lot on North Main 
street secured. This had formerly been a 
part of the homestead farm of Judge Durfee, 
a prominent citizen and the entertainer of 
I^afayette on his visit here, as well as the 



l)irthplace of Colonel Joseph Durfee, the 
liuilder of the first cotton mill here and the 
commander of the American forces in the 
fight wiith the British here during the Revo- 
lution; of Nathan and Thomas Durfee, the 
first natives of the town to graduate from 
college, and of Matthew C. Durfee, the cash- 
ier of the first bank. It had been, too, ihe 
homestead of Micah H Kiiggles ami Colonel 
Richard Borden. 

The building was commenced in 1889 and 
the cornerstone laid on August 8, with appro- 
priate ceremonies. It is of granite, 110 feet 
in length, 80 feet wide at the ends and 55 in 
the central part. It contains the court ro^nl 
on the second floor, 48x5«, the registry of 
deeds, law library, apartments for the Dis- 
trict Attorney, clerk of courts, etc., and has 
si.\ cells in the basement. '■ 

James Ford, Prelet D. Conant, Hezekiah 
Battelle, Cyrus Alden and Eliab Williams 
were trial justices for Fall River, Mass., and 
Fall River, R. I., respectively, before the 
establishment of the Police Court in 1852. 
Louis Lapham was judge of this court from 
its establishment tofts abolishment in 1873. 
when it was succeeded by the present Sec- 
ond District Court of Bristol, the first pre- 
siding Justice of which was Josiah Blaisdell, 
who held that office from 1874 to 1893, when 
he was succeeded by John J. McDonough, 
the present incumbent. Judge McDonough 
was born in Fall River in 1857, was edu- 
cated in his father's private school, in the 
public schools, graduated from Holy Cross 
College, Worcester, in 1880, from 'the Bos- 
ton University School of Law in 1884, and 
aiiandoned the practice of the law on his 
appointment to the beneh in 1893. He is a 
trustee of the public library, as is also Judge 
Braley, and was a representative to the Gen- 
eral Court in 1889 and 1890. Augustus B. 
Leonard, clerk of the District Court, has 
finished half a century in that capacity, hav- 
ing succeeded Hon. Jose|)h E. Dawley in 
185(;. He is still hale and hearty, closely at- 
tentive to duty, and is one of the best 
known citizens of the city. 

The Fall River Bar Association was 
formed in 1887. James M. .Morton was its 
first president, and John J. McDonough its 
first secretary. Andrew Jackson Jennings Is 
now its president and Edward A. Thurston is 
secretary. 

The county jail here was built in 1S9S. 
under authority of a legislative act of |S97. 
at a total cost, furni.shed. of $150.00n. from 
plans prepared by .Nathaniel C. Siuith, of 



104 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



New Bedford. The Urinnell farm, ou JJay 
street, was the site selected, purchased fur 
$16,000. Beattie & Cornell were the con- 
tractors lor the construction. At the time 
of its erection it was needed, but the sub- 
sequent growth of the probation system has 
so reduced the number of prisoners that it 
has never been opened. It has 120 cells. 

The oldest member of the bar now living 
is Nichola.s Hathoway, Sr,, a native of Free 
town, and a graduate of Brown in 1847. He 
settled here in 181)9, and has been Alderman, 
member of the Legislature, postmaster and 
a delegate to the Democratic National Con- 
vention. Another of the older men is Ben- 
jamin K. 1-ovatt. a graduate of Bowdoin in 
the class with Thomas B. Read, a resident of 
this city for forty years and for many years 
the senior special Justice of the District 
Court. A third is Milton Reed, a native of 
Haverhill, where he was born Octolier 1, 
1S4.S, salutalorian of his class at Harvard in 
18(18, for a time editor of the Evening News, 
ami an attorney since December, 1873. He 
has been a special justice of the District 
Court, City Solicitor for seven years, mem- 
ber of the State Senate, Mayor, chairman 
of the Board of Civil Service Examiners 
and a Bar Examiner. 

The firm of Jennings, .Morton & Brayton 
has had an interesting history. It dates 
from ]S(!4, when John S. Brayton and James 
M. Morton formed a partnership as Brayton 
& Morton. Mr. Brayton retired after a few 
years, leaving Mr. Morton alone until June, 
i87(i. when Andrew J. .lennings hecame his 
partner, under the firm name of Morton & 
Jennings. Mr. Morton retired in September, 
1S90, on his appointment to the Supreme 
Bench, and Mr. Jennings practiced alone for 
a time. John S. Brayton, Jr., son of the for- 
mer member of the firm, was admitted and 
was associated with Mr. Jennings for a year 
or two as Jennings & Brayton. His retire- 
ment again left Mr. Jennings alone. James 
M. Morton. Jr., son of another former mem- 
ber of the firm, became a partner in 1S94. 
and the firm name was Jennings & Morton 
until 1902, when Israel Brayton was admitted 
anil the present name of Jennings, Morton & 
Brayton was taken. 

Other prominent law offices here are thosi' 
of Jackson, Slade & Borden, .Tohn \V. Cuni- 
mings. Swift. Crimi' & Kerns. H. A. Dubuque. 
John T. Coughlln, Milton and Waldo Reed. 
Uaker &• Thurston. Ryan & Nickerson. IJn- 
coln & Hood, James F. Norrls, Milton Druce. 



.John Healy. Joseph Menard, David R. 
Kadovsky and David Silverstein. 

The senior of the two Fall River members 
of the Supreme Court is James Madison 
Morion, who was born September 5, 1837, the 
son of James M. and Sarah (Tobey) Morton, 
both natives of East Freetown. He was edu- 
cated at the Fall River High School. Brown 
University and the Harvard Law School, and 
t)egan practice here in the office of Judge 
Louis Lapham. In 18G4 he formed a part- 
nership with Hon. John S. Brayton and con- 
tinued in practice till his appointment to the 
Supreme Bench. He was City Solicitor. 
iS(;4-(;7. 

Hon. Henry King Braley. also of the 
Supreme Court, was born dn Rochester. 
Mass., March 17. 1850, the son of Samuel T. 
and Mary A. Braley. He attended Rochester 
and Pierce Academies, taught school for 
several years and studied law with Hon. 
Hosea Kingman, of Bridgewaler. being ad- 
mitted (o the l)ar in 1873. He began practice 
in this city in December of that year, first 
with Nicholas Hatheway. as Hatheway & 
liraley. and later with M. G. B. Swift, as 
Braley & Swift. He was City Solictior In 
1874, Mayor in 1882 and 1883, and was ap- 
pointed to the Superior Court in 1891. He 
was elevated to the Supreme Bench in 1902. 
He received the honorary degree of A. M. 
from Dartmouth College the same year. 



The |)hysioians of Fall River are energetic, 
skilful and aml>itious. and include surgeons 
and specialists of marked aliility. They are 
of a wide variety of nationalities and num- 
ber about 130, six of whom, as appears by 
the last directory, are women. Nearly all 
are of the allopathic school. Dr. Jerome 
Dwelly is easily the dean of the active pro- 
fession here, with Dr. Seabury W. Bowen 
l)robably next in order. Dr. Robert T. Davis, 
though he began practice a little in advance 
of Dr. Dwelly, has not practised to any ex- 
tent since his election to Congress. 

The medical profession of to-day has had 
worthy predecessors. Of these one of the 
most prominent was Dr. Foster Hooper, born 
in Walpole. N. H., in 1805. He came here in 
1820. and was active in his profession and 
in public affairs for nearly half a century. 
He had a large practice and was a skilful 
practitioner, having confidence in himself 
and the confidence of his |)atients as well. 
He was a ready talker, a good debater and a 
progressive public man. He was a member 
of the School Committee, Representative. 




Hudncr Building 



106 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Senator, County Treasurer, nitnUiur of the 
Constitutional Convention oi if>o.i. chiei eii- 
Sinei'i ol the hre ilepartnicnt anJ, at his 
death, the collector of internal revenue. His 
oince was on North Main street ou a site 
now occupied by a department store. 

Another prominent physician was Dr. 
Thomas Wilhur, an older man than Dr. 
Hooper, a native of HopKinton, R. I., and a 
member of an old family there. He was for 
a time principal of the Friends school in 
Providence, and later practiced in Swansea 
before removing to Fall River. He, too, had 
a lai'ge practice here, and was a good phy- 
sician and skilful surgeon. He was a mem- 
oer of the prudential committee of his school 
district and look a lively interest in what- 
ever pertained to the progress of the town. 
His office was at the southeast corner of 
South Main and Borden streets. He was 
active in the Friends denomination, and his 
father gave his name to one branch of that 
society still known as the ^'ilburites, when 
a division occurred, lie was a brother of 
Dr. Amos Wilbur, who jiracticed here for a 
few years. 

Dr. .lames M. Aldrioh, father of Dr. N. H. 
Aldrich, was also a leading physician here. 
He was active in temperance and abolition- 
ist movements, long a member of the School 
Committee, and prominent in the Unitarian 
Church. He was a natural philanthropist, 
and was for many years president of the 
Children's Home. Hiis office was at the cor- 
ner of North Main and Franklin streets. 

Dr. Bbenezer T. Learned, also the father 
of a practicin.g physician here, was very 
I)()pular and had a large practice. He was 
a kind-hearted, vigorous man and a hard 
worker. Dr. .Jason H. Archer practiced here 
for many years, was active in public affairs 
and first president of Massasoit Bank. He 
removed to his native town of Wrentham in 
]S,'>2. Dr. Phineas W. Leland practiced here 
a few years, but was more prominent in pub- 
lic affairs. He was for many years col- 
lector of the port, was State Senator, active 
in educational affairs and in the Athenaeum, 
and was editor of the Fall River Patriot. 

The hospitals are the new and comm:i- 
dious Ste. Anne's, opened this year, of which 
a notice appears elsewhere: the Union Hos- 
pital and the City Hospital, as well as two 
lirlvate hospitals — those of Drs. N. B. Aldrich 
and Philemon E, Truesdale. 

The Union Hospital was chartered October 
1. liKMi, and was the result of the consolida- 
tion of the Fall River and Emergency Hospi- 



tals, it is situated on Prospect street, in the 
old Valentine House, which was formerly the 
home of the Fall River Hospital, and which, 
by the building of additions, now has G2 
beds. A new building has been decided upon 
and, it is expected, will soon be begun. 

The Fall River hospital, one of the prede- 
cessors of the Union, was founded Septem- 
ber 17, 1SS5, by a number of prominent citi- 
zens, and incorporated October 10, with 
John D. Flint, president; Frank S. Stevens, 
vice-president, and Hugo A. Ehibuque, clerk. 
The Valentine estate was purchased in 
March. 1S8T, a woman's board established 
early the following year, and the first patient 
received May 9, 1SS8. Miss A. E. Andrews 
was the first matron, followed by Misses E. 
F. Cox and M. M. Brownrrgg. The west wing 
was built in 1891 and a maternity ward add- 
ed in 1897. A school for nurses was estab- 
lished in connection with the hospital in 18SS. 

The Emergency, the other institution in 
the forming of the Union Hospital, was 
established in December, 1895, in a dwelling 
opposite the Central Church on Rock street, 
as an outgrowth of the Home Training 
School for Nurses, which had been startcSfl 
in 1894, largely through the efforts of Dr. 
John H. Gifford. It did an excellent work 
during the five years of its existence, largely 
in the treatment of "out-patients." 

The Fall River Medical Society was 
formed November 20, 1889, with Dwight E. 
Cone the first president and A. C. Peckham 
secretary and treasurer. The early meetings 
were held at the homes of the members, until 
1893, when rooms were secured in the Fall 
River National Bank Building, from which it 
removed in 1897 to the A. J. Borden I3uilding 




Evening Ncw.i BuildiiiK 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



107 



The city has lour daily newspapers — the 
News, Globe, Herald and L Independaiil, all 
evening papers, and all active and progres- 
sive, with a large circulation in the city and 
adjoining towns, exerting a strong influence 
lor the good of the city and its inhabitants. 
The oldest of these is the News, which was 
started as a weekly on April 3, 1S4.'5, by 
Inomas Alniy and John C. Milne, and began 
the publication of a daily edition in connec- 
tion wiith the weekly in 1,S59, following the 
purchase of the Daily Beacon, a newspaper 
which had been started iby Noel A. Tripp as 
successor to the Evening Star, published 
by B. \V. Pearce. in 1^57. The Evening 
News iwas the first daily published here to 
survive, and has been enlarged from time to 
time to meet a growing ibusiness. The News 
was originally Democratic, but became Re- 
publican in 1S53. and has since advocated 
the principles of that party, though criticis- 
ing without hesitation whenever it believed 
the party leaders were wrong. It took a 
strong stand for freedoni-during the anti-slav- 
ery agitation and for the Union during the 
Civil War, and has always worked for the 
right as it saw it in all moral questions of 
the day. It has steadily advocated the tem- 
perance cause and has always refused to ac- 
cept advertising offered by the liquor inter- 
ests, though at a considerable pecuniary loss. 
Its office was first at 5 Bedford street, and sud- 
sequentily at the northeast corner of Main and 
Market streets, from which if removed to 
the News Building, on Pleasant street, in the 
early seventies. John C. Milne, one of the 
founders of the paper, is still a member of 
the firm and still active in the editorial work, 
and his son, Joseph D. Milne, is mana.i^ing 
editor. Thomas Almy, Mr. Milne's first part- 
ner, died in May, 1SS2. Franklin L. Almy, the 
business manager, has been connected with 
the paper since its establishmenit, and has 
been a member of the firm since ISlit. .Mr. 
Frank S. Almy, son of Mr. Almy. has charge 
of the advertising and circulation depart- 
ments. The present firm name, Almy & 
Milne, has been unchanged since 184.5, ex- 
cept for the period between the admission 
of Franklin L. and the death of Thomas 
Almy. when it was Almy. Milne & Co. 

The Fall River Daily Globe was started 
in IS.S.'i as a Democratic paper and has since 
remained a strong advocate of the principles 
of thait party. It is owned by the Fall River 
Daily Globe Publishing Co., which now has 
a capital of $80,000, with Michael Sweeney 
president. Quintan Leary treasurer, and 



Michael Sweeney, Quinlan Leary, Robert 
OHearn, Thomas Ludden, William A. Leary. 
Dr. John W. Coughlin and C. S, Greene direc- 
tors. It was imblished in Court Square until 
April, 190G, when it removed to a handsome 
new five-story building which it had erected 
for its use on North Main street. The first 
editor was Allen P. Kelly, and the first busi- 
ness manager, David F. Lingane. Mr. Kelly 
was succeeded by Mr. Lingane, and Charles 
R. Cummings became business manager. 
Mr. Lingane was editor tor several years, 
and was succeeded in 1889 by George U. 
Brennan, who was followed by William F. 
Kennedy, the present managing editor, in 
1^91. Business managers since Mr. Cum- 
mings have been George R. H. Duffinton, W. 
H. Hanscom, C. F. Kelly and James F. Dris- 
coll, the present manager, who has con- 
tributed largely in building up the business 
of this popular newspaper. 

The Border City Herald Publishing Com- 
pany was organized in 1S72. lip to that time 
there had been no newspaper published in 
this city devoted to Democratic principles. 
Foremost in the movement to establish such 
a paper was the late Judge Louis Lapham. 
Associated with him were Nicholas T. Gea- 
gan. Southard H. Miller, Jeremiah R. Leary, 
John Southworth, John Campbell and other 
Democrats, who organized a stock company 
with a capital of $0,000. and began the pub- 
lication of the Border City Herald, an even- 
ing paper, of which the early announcement 
•said; "In politics, while not neutral, the 
Herald will be thoroughly independent, and 
contain very full accounts of local affairs. 
It is devoted to the manufacturing and other 
business interests of Fall River, and seeks, 
in a firm, honorable way. to foster all en- 
terprises which jiroiwise to add to the pros- 
perity of the citizens." 

Quarters were secured in the Nichols 
Building, on Pocasset street, near the site of 
the annex to the Boys' Club. Louis Lapham 
was the first editor, and Walter Scott man- 
ager. Mr. Scoitt later became editor and 
served for several years. Other editors of 
the paper while it was an exponent of 
Democratic principles have been William 
Hovey, Frederick R. Burton, William H. 
Wright, Joseph E. Chamberlain, Ernest 
King. George Salisbury and Michael Reagan. 
During their service the offlce was moved 
to Court Square, and at the close of 1.SS9 the 
paper took possession of (lie building now- 
owned and occupied by it at 2,'il to 2:13 
Pocasset street. 




WiUum F. Kennedy. Editor ol the F.ill River D.iilv Glotv 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



109 



In 187G the name of the corporation was 
changed to the Fall River Dally Herald Pub- 
lishing Company. About the year 18SS t"he 
control of the paper passed into the hands 
of a syndicate, of which Dr. John W. Cough- 
lin was the leader. Nicholas T. Geagan had 
been treasurer and manager, and he was suc- 
ceded by .James E. O'Connor. Associated 
with them were .John Cuttle, John Stanton, 
Michael Mooney, James Lawlor, Dr. J. B. 
Chagnon and James H. Hoar. 

In 1893 the control of the paper passed 
into the hands of men who changed its pol- 
icy to independent Republican. The presi- 
dent of the new corporation was John D. 
Munroe. and the treasurer and manager was 
George R. H. Bufflnton. Thatcher T. Thurston 
was editor. The Herald continues as an in- 
dependent Republican newspaper, the offi- 
cers of which are as follows: President, 
James Marshall; treasurer and manager. 
John D. Munroe; directors, James Marshall, 
John D. Munroe, J. Thayer Lincoln, lidward 
B. Jennings and Willliam B. Edgar. The 
editor is Clarence E. Bury. 

"L'Independant" is an eight-page daily 
sheet published in the French language. It 
was founded on the 2Tth day of March, U>i5. 
as a weekly newspaper, by A. Houde & Co. 
In 1SS9 it was purchased by O. Thiliault. and 
four years later, October l;j, l,s9:j. it began 
its daily edition iwith Remi Tremblay, now of 
Ottawa (Ontario) as editor in chief. Its 
present editor in chief, who has been acting 
in that capacity for nearly twelve years, i. 
e., since September (Uh. 1894, is G. de Ton- 
nancour. Among its contributors are men 
of international fame, such as Louis Her- 
bette. State Councillor of France; Louis 
Frechette, poet laureate of Canada; Benja- 
min Suite, the noted Canadian historian, and 
Leon Gerin, of Ottawa, Canada, a prominent 
writer on social questions. 

This newspaper is, and has been for the 
last four years, the property of "L'lndepen- 
dent" Publishing Comjiany, of which O. Thi- 
bault is the treasurer and manager. It is a 
fearless Republican organ, whose influence, 
politically and educationally, is widely felt 
among the people of French extraction in 
Massachusetts and the surrounding States. 
■■L'Independant" stands for all that is good, 
pure and sound in our institutions, and its 
Americanism has never been questioned. 

The Fall River Monitor.* — The country had 
reached its serai-centenniaJ before any news- 



*Contributed by William S. Robertson. 



paper was published here, and not until 23 
years after the settlement of the town did 
any one have the courage to venture out 
upon the sea of journalism. The first num- 
ber of the Monitor was issued January C, 
1S20, by Nathan Hall. The town was then 
under the corporate name- of Troy, al- 
though the name of Fall River, by which it 
was first called and to which it was 
changed back in 1834, still existed as the 
name of the village, the place of publication 
of the paper, which was on Bedford street, 
near Main. The size of the paper was 19x 
24 Inches, four pages and four columns to a 
page. The population of the town was then 
3,000. 

July 1, 1829, Benjamin Earl, who had pre- 
viously served an apprenticeship on the, 
paper, bought out the establishment and as- 
sumed publication of the Monitor July 1, 
1829. Subsequently J. S. Hammond became 
associated with Mr. Earl in its publication. 
March, 1838. Earl & Hammond sold out 
their interest in the paper to N. A. Tripp 
and Alfred Pearce. This partnership con- 
linued but three months, when Henry Pratt 
assumed the obli.gations which Mr. Pearce 
had thrown off. and for many years the 
publishers were Messrs. Tripp & Pratt. In 
18.5(1 Mr. Tripp ceased to he a nieuil)fr of the 
firm, and Mr. Pratt continued the publication 
of the paper. In December, ISGS, Mr. Wil- 
liam S. Robertson assumed the publication 
of the Monitor, on the retirement of Mr. 
Pratt, and continued its publication until 
January 25, 1897, when the paper was sus- 
pended, but the office continued for job 
printing. The Monitor was always pub- 
lished weekly, but also issued a daily edition 
for about. two years while under Mr. Robert- 
son's management. In its earlier days the 
Monitor was the political organ of the 
Whigs, but after (he formation of the Re- 
publican party, in 1854, It ever espoused 
their principles. 

Among those who at various times were 
editorially connected with the Monitor were 
Joseph Hathaway, Esq., Charles F. Town- 
send, Matthew C. Durfee, James Ford. Esq.. 
Hon. William P. Sheffield, Hon. Joseph E. 
Dawley and William S. Robertson. 

Publications here which have llveil but a 
brief period are numerous. The Moral En- 
voy was a weekly, an anti-Masonic organ, 
published about a year, in 1830, by George 
W. Allen. Noel A. Tripp started the Vil- 
lage Recorder, first a fortnightly and then 
a weekly, in 1831, but i( had only a short 



no 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



existence, and was merged in the Monitor. 
Tlie Patriot, a Democratic weekly, was 
started by William Canfleld in 1S3G. and 
lived about four years. In 1S41 it was suc- 
ceeded by the Archetype, published by 
Thomas Almy and Louis Lapham for one 
year. Then came the Gazette, owned by 
Abraham Bowen and Stephen Hart, also 
short-lived; the Ar^us, published by Thomas 
Almy and .lonathan Slade, till 1,S4:{; the 
Flint ami Steel, edited by Dr. P. W. Leland; 
the Mechanic, started by Thomas Almy in 
1844 and discontinued a year later; the 
Wampanoag, a seniiimoathly, started in 
1842 and abandoned in a year; the All 
Sorts, publishe<l 'semi-occasionally" by 
Abraham Bowen from 1841 to 1860; the 
Daily Evening Star, started by B. W. Pearce 
in 1857, changed soon after to the Daily Bea- 
con, and merged in the Evening News in 
1859; the People's Press, started by Noel 
Tri|)p and B. W. Pearce in 1S57 and merged 
in llic Monitor in lS(i4. 

In later years there have been the Record. 
.started in 1878 by W. O. Milne & Co.; the 
Sun, in 1880, by a stock company, with Er- 
nest King, editor: the Tril)iine. a Rei)iibli- 
can morning piipcr. iiml the .hmrnal and 



Democrat, pu'jlished by Henry Seavey. None 
lived through its second year. A similar 
fate attended the Massachusetts Musical 
.Journal, tlie Key Note, the Advance, the 
Labor Journal and the Saturday Morning 
Bulletin. L'Echo du Canada, the first paper 
published here in French, lived about two 
years from its founding in 1873. 

Samuel E. Fiske Ijegan in 1SS5 and only 
recently discontinued the publication of ten 
newspapers with essentially the same news, 
known as the Fall River Advertiser, the 
Somerset Times, the Swansea Record, the 
Freetown Journal, the Westport News, the 
Dighton Rock, the Rehoboth Sentinel, the 
HcrUlcy f!le;iner. the Norton Bulletin and 
the Raynham Enterprise. 

In 1888 Franklin B. Christmas and James 
F. Dillon began the publication of the Catho- 
lic Advocate, a weekly, which was by them 
sold in 1890 to an association which con- 
tinued its i)ul)lication under the editorslilp of 
.lohn J. .VIcDonough until 1.S93, when it 
passed into the hands of James F. Lawler, 
who still prints it. 

The Weekly Journal was puldisluMl for a 
wliilc in 1S90 by Charies .1. Lcary. liuf it is 
r.o.v out of existence. 




Boy»' Club HouK. Prstented lo the Bov! ol FjU Riv«r by M. C. D. Borden, Em). 



CHAPTER XIV 



RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS 



Wide Variety ol Denominations. Long Pastorales and Strong Preachers. 
Sketch of each Church 



Though it cannot be said of Fall River 
that every creed finds a home here, there is 
nevertheless a wide variety of denomina- 
tions among the Protestants. The Congre- 
gationalists, Methodists, Baptists, Episcopa- 
lians and Primitive Methodists are all strong 
here. The Christian denomination has three 
churches, the Presbyterian two and the 
Church of the New .Jerusalem, the Uni- 
tarian, the Advent Christian, the Reorgan- 
ized church, the Friends, the Christian 
Scientists and possibly other denominations 
one or more churches each. A Universalist 
Church existed for a time a halt century ago, 
and attempts have since been made to re- 
vive it, but without success. 

In the Colonial days the residents of what 
is now Fall River were chiefly Quakers, with 
a few Cougregationalists, but they attended 
services held outside the present city limits, 
the Friends across the river and the Congre- 
gationalists in what is now Freetown. The 
first church to bo formed here was the First 
Baptist, in 17S1. and this was the only one 
till the First Congregational was organize.!, 
in 1816, closely followed by the Friends" So- 
ciety two years later. The Methodist 
Church dates from 1827, the T'nitarian from 
1832 and the Episcopalian from 18:50. With 
the growth of population new churches of 
these and other denominations have been 
formed and have prospered, though in nearly 
every case the early years have been periods 
of struggle a.gainst del)t. and of self-denial 
for the faith. 

The clergy of the city have included men 
whose fame has spread 'beyond their own 
denomination, notably Rev. E. T. Taylor, 
aftenwards widely known for his work among 
the sailors: Samuel Longfellow, a brother 
of the poet, and .1. Le'wis Dinian. later a 
professor at Brown X'nivorsity Others no 
longer with us. who had a strong influence' 
in the community durin.g their residence 



here, include Eli Thurston, for 20 years 
pastor of the Central Church, and Michael 
Burnham, who occupied the same pulpit for 
12 years: the Reverend E. A. Buck, widely 
esteemed for his long service in the mis- 
sionary field here: .lohn Westall. of the New 
Church; Asa Bronson, for 19 years pastor 
of local Baptist churches, and P. B. Haugh- 
wout, for 1.5; Orin Fowler, preacher, his- 
torian and member of Congress, and George 
.M. Randall, afterward Bishop of Colorado. 




Old Episcopal Church which jifood on South Mjin Street, 
on present site ol Mc Whirr's Dry Goods Store 

In point of length of service Dr. W. \V 
Adams, of the First Congregational Church, 
now completing his forty-third year as pas- 
tor, is easily the first. Others still pastors 
here after considerable terms include H. C. 
Aydellott, who has been minister of the 
Friends' Society since 1877; Emelius W. 
Smith, rector of the Church of the Ascen- 
sion since 1SS4; Payson W. l>ynian, pastor 
of the Fowler Church since IS.ss. ami David 
B. .lutten, of the Second Baptist since IS'i:!. 
These and their co-workers, who have since 
entereil the local field, constitute a corps of 



112 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



high standing and of strong influence for 
righteousness in the community. 

The First Congregational Church was or- 
ganized January 9, ISIG, by Joseph, Eliza- 
beth, Richard and Wealthy Durfee and Ben- 
jamin Brayton, at the home of Richard Dur- 
fee. For the first seven years it had no 
regular place of worship or settled minister, 
but meetings were held each Sabbath at the 
homes, the schoolhouse, the Line meeting 
house or a storehouse. The first church edi- 
fice, 4.5x3G, with a vestry, was erected in 
1, si; 1-22 on Ana wan street, near South Main, 



Diman, afterward professor at Brown Uni- 
versity, ISoC-lSeO; Solomon P. Fay, 1861-63; 
William W. Adams, D. D., the present pastor, 
since 1803. Dr. Adams, who became active 
pastor October 1, 1803, and was settled over 
the church September 14, the following year, 
has the distinction of having been minister 
of the church for a longer period than any 
other Protestant clergyman in the history of 
the city. The First Congregational has .il- 
ways been the church home of prominent 
men and women, and is the mother of the 
Central Church. 




r.il Con}^rc}(ationj[ Ctiiircti 



and enlarged in 1S27. It was later sold to 
the I'nitarian Society, then to the town of 
Fall River and altered into a schoolhouse. 
It was biirneil in the fire of 1843. The pres- 
ent church was erected in 1832 and dedi- 
cated November 21 of that year. The first 
])astor was Rev. Augustus B. Reed, 1823- 
IS2.'). Subsequent i)aslors have lieen: Thos. 
.\I. Smith. 1S2(;-:il; Grin Fowler, historian. 
State Senator and member of Congress, 1.S31- 
,18.1(1; Heiijaiiilti .1 Uelyea. 18.')ll-r>(i; J. Lewis 



The Central Congregational Church was 
formed November Id, 1S42. by seventy 
members of the First Congregational Church 
who withdrew following a business disagree- 
ment between two prominent members, 
which occasioned widespread disaffection. 
Only one of the charter members is now liv- 
ing. Mrs. William Carr. The first meetings 
were held at the dwelling houses of the 
members, ami in December a hall In the Po- 
casset Building, a l)riek structure at the cor- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



113 



ner of South Main and Pleasant streets, was 
secured for a place of worship. The build- 
ing was burned in the fire of 1S43, and the 
church held services in the Baptist Temple 
until December of that year, when it was able 
to occupy the vestry of a new wooden edi- 
fice it had erected on the northwest corner 
of Bedford and Roclc streets, on land do- 
nated for the purpose by the Durfee family. 
The new building was dedicated April 24, 
1844, and in the evening Rev. Samuel Wash- 
burn was installed as first pastor of the 
church, which then had 106 members. The 
present beautiful church at the corner of 
Rock and Franklin streets was begun in 
May, 1S74, and dedicated December 13, 1S7.5. 
It is of brick, with Nova Scotia freestone 
trimmings, and is in the Victoria Early Eng- 
lish Gothic style. It has a regular seating 
capacity of 1,200, which may be increa.sed 
when necessary to 1,800. Over $125,000 had 
been subscribed for the building fund, includ- 
ing two gifts of $40,000 each from Dr. Na- 
than Durfee and Colonel Richard Borden, 
but the completion of the structure left the 
church with the old property on its hand.s 
and a debt of $100,000. This was a heavy 
burden, but was carried until Sunday, Feb- 
ruary 1, 1880, when $76,000 was raised in a 
single day. The original church property 
was sold in 1886, together with othev land, 
and the church became and has since re- 
mained free from debt. The chapel was 
erected in 1891, at a cost of about $18,000. 
The pastors have been: Rev. Samuel Wash- 
burn, 1844-49; Rev. Eli Thurston, D. D., 
1849-69; Rev. Michael Burnham, D. D., 1870-' 
S2; Rev. Eldridge Mix, D. D., 1882-90; Rev. 
William Walk-er Jubb, 1891-96; Rev. William 
Allen Knight. 1897-1902, and Rev. Clarence 
F. Swift, D. D., since 1902. Rev. Edwin A. 
Buck was city missionary from 1867 till his 
death in 190.3. though relieved from active 
duty in 1899. and both at home and abroad • 
the church has done much in missionary 
service. Its present membership is about 
600. An excellent history of the church was 
published in 190.5, under the editorship of 
Henry H. Earl. 

The Fowler Congregational Church was 
organized in 1874, with Rev. Leander S. Coan 
its first pastor, and erected its meeting 
house, a frame building on the corner of 
Maple and Hanover streets, the same year. 
Mr. Coan was succeeded in 1875 by Calvin 
Keyser. Sumner G. Wood was the next pas- 
tor. 1 88.3-88. and was followed by Payson 
W. Lyman, the present incumbent. The 



present name of the church was assumed in 
1890, in honor of Rev. Orin Fowler. 

The Broadway Congregational Church, the 
outgrowth of a mission established by the 
Central Church in 1892, was organized 
•March 13, 1894, and on the same day Don- 
ald Browne was installed the first pastor. 
He resigned October 31, and was succeeded 
•June 26, 1895, by William Todd, who re- 
signed July 5, 1896. James G. .Megathlin was 
installed December 18, 1896, and resigned 
July 6, 1899. Rev. James E. Enman became 
pastor September 1, 1899, was installed Octo- 
ber 10, and still continues in service. 

The French Congregational, the only 
French Protestant church in the city, grew 
from a mission begun by the First Church in 
1SS4. The church was organized in 1886 
and dedicated its edifice on Harrison street 
in September, 1888. Rev. Xavier Smith, who 
l)egan the work, has been succeeded by T. 
J. Cote, G. C. Mousseau, G. Allard and S. P. 
Rondeau. 

The First Baptist Church was organized 
at the home of Jonathan Brownell, on North 
Main street, in 1781, with 30 members, and 
ordained its first pastor, Elder Amos Bur- 
rows, two years later. He remained but one 
year. In 1795 two young men. James 
Boomer and Job Borden, were ordained and 
served jointly till 1804, when Mr. Boomer 
left. About 1800 a meeting house was built 
near the Narrows, and the name of the 
church changed from "The Church in Free- 
town, Dartmouth and Westporf to ™The 
Second Baptist Church in Tiverton." The 
name was twice again changed to conform 
with changes in the name of the town. A 
new meeting house on South Main street, 
completed in 1828 and afterwards sold to 
the Episcopal Church, was followed by tlie 
present Baptist Temple, dedicated Septem- 
ber 16, 1840. Rev. Asa Bronson was pastor 
from 1833 for eleven years, during wnich 
709 members joined the church, and a 
strong stand was taken against slavery. The 
meeting house was sold to the present Sec- 
ond Baptist Church In 1847, and the mom- 
ners of the First Church worshipped in a 
hall until they were able to occupy the ves- 
try of their present edifice at the corner of 
North Main and Pine streets, in 1850. The 
pastors since this time have been A. P. 
Mason, .lacob R. Scott. 1853; P. B. Haugh- 
wout. 18.55-70; Daniel C. Eddy. 1871-73; Al- 
bion K. P. Small, 1874-83; Thomas S. Bar- 
bour. 1883-96; F. H. Rowley. 1897-1900; A. 
G. Upham, since 1902. 



114 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



For many years this church has been 
active in the local mission field, and now has 
three prosperous chapels under its guidance, 
the Broadway, the Brownell street and the 
Harrison street. The first was begun as a 
Sunday school, as were the others, in 1857, 
and had various meeting places till its 
present home was selected. W. P. Osgood 
was the first clergyman in charge, serving 
until 1901. He was succeeded by George Rs 
Atha, and in 1904 by B. G. Ewald. The 
Brownell Street Chapel had its inception in 



June 18, 184G, by 149 memhers of the First 
Church and several others, and held services 
in the town hall and the Unitarian vestry 
until October, 1847, when it occupied the 
Baptist Temple, which it had purchased 
from the mother society. Rev. Asa Bronson, 
who a few years before had been pastor of 
the First Church, was called, and served 
till 1857. His successors have been Charles 
A. Snow, 1858-64; John Duncan, 1865-70; 
Frank R. Morse, 1871-73; Henry C. Graves. 
1874-1880; E. W. Hunt, ISSO-SJ: O.-mu'.- \V. 




The Church of the ,As( 

a Spring street Sal)l)atli school 87 years ago. 
anil afler six years went to its present home. 
It was organized in 1871 as the Mechanics- 
ville Baptist Church, a name changed in 
1874 to the Third Baptist and laler to its 
present title. Rev. Messrs. W. M. Lyles, 
George L. Ma.son. Edson, Ix)ckwood, Eaton, 
Snow and Gould have been in charge at 
various periods. Charles E. Lewis, who had 
been pastor for some years, resigned early 
in 1 906. The Harri.son Street Chapel elates 
from 1885. Rev. .Tosei>h Butlerworth has 
been in charge for more than ten years. 
The Second Baptist Church was formed 



(jile, 1884-93: Uaviil H. .lulleii. i,Mi.; lo the 
present time. 

The Third Baptist Churcli is the out- 
growth of a Sunday school organized by 
Deacon and Mrs. A. O. Cook and other mem- 
bers of the Second Baptist Church in May, 
1861. The first meetings were held in a 
schoolhouse which stood where Tucker 
street now enters Stafford road. The at- 
tendance increased, and in 1873 the present 
church edifice was erected hy the school 
and Its friends. II was then known as Frank 
lln Hall, and was held by the Fninklin Hall 
Cor|>oration, which is still In existence. The 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



US 



ounday school was continued under Deacon 
Cook as superintendent. In ISSS H. W. 
Watjen, a student at Brown, was employed 
to preach Sunday evenings, followed by 
Charles V. French in 1S90 and W. F. Wilson 
in 1891, who remained till 1S9S. The church 
was formed under his leadership December 
4, 1890, and recognized December 29. Rev. 
George R. Atha was the first pastor, called 
in June, 1S9S. and remained till July 1, 191)2. 
He was succeeded by Rev. Joseph ilcKean, 
the present pastor, October 1, 1902. The 
church has ninety members and the Sun- 
day school 250. Deacon Cook retired as 
superintendent in 1902 and was succeeded 
by Joseph McCreery, Jr., and in December, 
1904, iby Everett B. Durfee. Extensive 
changes were made in the church structure 
in 1905. 

The Trinity Baptist Church is the out- 
growth of a mission started about 1S6S in a 
small store on Fifth street, ne-ar Branch, 
by Deacon Charles Coburn, Alexander O. 
Cook, Spaulding Southworth and others. The 
Fifth Street Mission was formed and the 
present building erected, with the assist- 
ance of the mills in the neighborhood, three 
of which gave $100 each, and one allowed 
the use of the land. In 1SS8 the Second Bap- 
tist Society absorbed the mission and moved 
the building to Foster street. The build- 
ing was enlarged from time to time and in 
1905 the Trinity Church was formed, with 
sixty constituent members. The mission 
was in charge of various students, Mr. Mc- 
Lean, J. F. Watts, James Lawson, Irving .1. 
Enslin and Rolla E. Hunt. They were suc- 
ceeded by W. H. Nobbs, who became the 
first pastor on the organization of the 
church. He resigned during the first year 
and was succeeded by Rev. Frank W. 
Wheeler, the present pastor. 

The First Methodist Episcopal Church was 
not formed until about 1827, though meet- 
ings had been held occasionally for some 
time before that. In 1827 the first regular 
preacher was sent here. Rev. E. T. Taylor, 
widely known as "Father" Taylor for his 
work in behalf of the seamen. A small 
church building was erected in that year 
near Central street A new edifice, erected 
on the site of (he present church in 1840, 
was burned in the fire of 1843. but at once 
rebuilt and dedicated in 1844. By 1851 the 
membership had become so large that a sec- 
ond church. St. Paul's, was formed. The 
church edifice was raised and stores built 
in front about 1870. Rev. E. Blake suc- 



ceeded Mr. Taylor in 1S29. Subsequent pas- 
tors were Daniel Webb, Ira M. Bidwell, 
Squire B. Haskell, Mark Staples, Hector 
Bronson, Hhineas Crandall. Orange Scott. 
Isaac Bonney. Thomas Ely. Charles K. True. 
George F. Poole, James D. Butler, David Pat- 
ten, Daniel Wise, Frederick Upham, Elisha 
B. Bradford, John Howson, Thomas Ely, An- 
drew McKeown, Charles H. Payne, Henry 
Baylies, J. D. King, in the order named. A. 
A. Wright became pastor in lS7<i and was 
followed by S. L. Gracey, 1873; Ensign Mc- 
Chesney, 1874; Watson L. Phillips, 1877; 
William T. North. 1879; Warren A. Luce, 
1882; Dwight A. Jordan, 1883; Alfred E. 
Drew. ISSG; Archibald McCord, 1887; Walter 
J. Yates. 1SS9; Warren A. Luce. 1892; Ste- 
phen O. Benton, 1896; William I. Ward, 1901; 
Thomas Tyrie, 1903; John E. Blake, 1905. 

The Brayton M. E. Church had its nucleus 
as a Sunday school of the First church, 
started in 1843.' It took its place as a church 
in 1854 as the Globe Street M. E. Church 
and purchased the home of the disbanded 
Christ Church on Globe street. The present 
name was assumed about 1870, in recogni- 
tion of generous gifts from the Brayton 
family, whose ancestor, John Brayton. 
founded the South Somerset Church. The 
present edifice was erected about ten years 
ago. Early pastors were A. H. Worthin. 
Elihu Grant, Charles A. Merrill, A. IT. Swin- 
erton, Edward Hatfield. W. P. Hyde. George 
H. Lamson and Charles S. Morse. Edward 

A. Lyon took charge in 1875 and has Been 
succeeded as follows: Samuel Keown, 1877; 
Elihu Grant. 1879; William B. Heath. 1881; 

B. F. Simon. 1884; Robert Clark. 188(1; John 
G. Gammons. 1889; R. M. Wilkins. 1894; 
Edwin E. Phillips. 1899; E. J. Ayres. 1901; 
William E. Kugler, 1902; H. H. Critchlow, 
1903; E. W. Goodier, 190G. 

The Quarry Street M. E. Church was or- 
ganized in 1870 and erected its church edi- 
fice the same year. William Livesey. C. W. 
Warren, S. M. Beal, Richard Povey. E. D. 
Hall, Henry H. Martin and .lames H. Nutting 
were early pastors. Their successors were 
.lohn C. McGowan. 1883; .lohn D. King, 
1884; George M. Hamblen. 1.887; B. K. Bos- 
worth. 1889; F. L. Brooks. 1892; H. A. Ridg- 
wa.v. 1895; Elliott F. Studle.v. 1900; E. J. 
Ayres. 1902; John Pearce. 1905; John Old- 
ham. 1900. 

St. Paul's .M K. Church was organized In 
1851 by 123 members of the First Church, 
who had withdrawn to form a new society, 
following special services in the old church 



U6 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



that added so many that it was unable to 
accommodate all who desired pews. The 
church edifice on Bank street was erected in 
1852 and enlarged to its present seating ca- 
pacity in 1864. St. Paul's has aided greatly 
in the establishment of new churches and 
given freely to missions and other benevo- 
lences. Ralph W. Allen, the first pastor, 
was followed by John Hobart, 1853-54; M. 
J. Talbot, 1855-56; Samuel C. Brown, 1857- 
58; John B. Gould, 1859-00; J. A. M. Chap- 
man, 1861-G2; Samuel C. Brown, 1803-64; 
Alfred A. Wright, 1865; George A. Bowler, 
1860-67; Francis J. Wagner, 1868-09; Emory 
.). Haynes, 1870-71; George E. Reed, 1872-74; 
George \V. Woodruff, 1875-76; R. H. Rust, 
1877-79; C. W. Gallagher, 1880-81; E. M. 
Taylor, 1882-84; H. D. Kimball, 1885-80; J. C. 
Hull, 1887-88; J. M. Williams, 1889-91; A. J. 
Coultas, 1892-96; i. H. MacDonald, 1897- 
1900; Matthias S. Kauffnian. l'.ioi-19()4; F. 
W. Coleman, 1905. 

The North M. E. Church at Steep Brook 
was organized in 1859. Its early pastors 
included A. G. Gurner, G. H. Winchester, B. 
Ashley, J. Gifford, J. Q. Adams, J. G. Gam- 
mons, Philip Crandon, R. W. C. Farnworth, 
E. G. Babcoclv, G. H. Lamson, A. J. Coultas 
(1880-81), A. J. Church, J. A. Rood and O. 
E. Johnson. Recent clergymen have been: 
J. Livesey. 1892; S. T. Patterson, 1893; W. 
Kidington, 1894; A. Anderson, 1895-98; 
Henry W. Brown, 1899-1900; Will F. Geisler, 
1901-1902; Charles A. Purdy, 1903-05; Jacob 
Belts, 1905. 

The Summerfield M. E. Church, the young- 
est of the churches of the denomination ;n 
the city, dates from May 9, 1875. In that 
year it erected a building on Terry street 
and took the name of the Terry Street M. 
E. Church. In 1878 the edifice was removed 
lo its present location at the corner of 
North Main and Hood streets, and the name 
of North Main Street M. E. Church was 
assumed. In 1883, when the church build- 
ing was raised, the name was changed to 
Park .M. E. Church, and in 1890 to the pres- 
I'lil title, in lienor of Uov. John Summerfield, 
a faniou.s Methodist divine. The parson- 
age was erected in 1891. The pastors have 
been: William B. Heath, 1875-78; J. F. Shef- 
field, 1878-79; Eben Tlrrell. Jr., 1879-82; E. F. 
Smith, 18S2-S3; George E. Fuller. 1883-85; 
M. S. Kaufman, 1885-88; James Tregaskis, 
1.S8S-90; Robert D. Dyson, 1890-94; Edwin F. 
Jones, 1894-90; Louis F. Flocken, 1890-98; 
Oscar F. Johnson, 1S99-19IM; Uennells C. 
Miller, 1904. 



First Primitive Methodist Church. — The 
first meeting of the Primitive Methodists in 
tnis city was held December 20, 1871, in the 
Flint Block, on Pleasant street. October 12, 
1874, the articles o€ incorporation were 
signed and the mission became a perma- 
nent institution. The foundation for the 
present building on Plymouth avenue and 
Dover street was laid in November, 1873. 
The church was erected during the following 
year and was dedicated January, 1875. The 
land was donated by the Richard Borden Mfg. 
Company. The school room on Dover street 
was dedicated September 22, 1888. The 
following ministers have served the church: 
Rev. Charles Miles, 1874 to 1877; Rev. John 
Finch, 1877 to 1880; Rev. Ralph Fothergill, 
1880 to 1883, and died during the third year 
of his pastorate; Rev. J. Stewart, 1883 lo 
18N7; Rev. S. Knowles, 1887 to 1892; Rev. 
J. T. Barlow, 1892 to 1897; Rev. W. B. Tay- 
lor, 1897 to 1899; Rev. A. Humphries. Ph. 
I)., the present Incumbent, began his pas- 
torate May, 1899. From this mother church 
sprang the North Tiverton, Dwelly Street 
and Haffard Street Primitive Methodist 
churches. 

The Sykes Primitive Methodist Church, 
on County street, is named for a member of 
the denomination who contributed the site 
of the edifice. It was founded by the Rev. 
Thomas Wilson, who, after a number of 
years' absence, is now the pastor. 

The Second Primitive Methodist Church. 
— In 1890 about twenty persons, mem- 
bers of North Tiverton and Plymouth 
Avenue (Fall River) churches, had located 
in Globe village with their families, and as 
the distance was too great for them to at- 
tend regularly their home churches, and 
there was seating capacity in Protestant 
churches in the village for only 400 persons 
out of a Protestant population of about 3,500, 
it was decided to form a new society. 

Meetings were held in a store on the cor- 
ner of South Main and Dwelly streets, and 
the Rev. John Mason, then pastor of North 
Tiverton Church, supplied the new society 
wath preaching and pastoral oversight. The 
following year Rev. W. H. Childs took the 
place of Rev. .1. Mason as pastor of the two 
societies, and preparations were made for 
the erection of a rhiircli in Glol»' village. 'A 
site was secured on Dwelly street, west of 
South Main street, and the corner stone was 
laid December 17. 1892. under the pastorale 
of Rev. T. G. Spencer, who had been ap- 
pointed to the charge by the conference held 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



IJ7 



in May of that year. The church was dedi- 
cated April itj, isys. It is a commodious 
iitiucture. Tne audience room, neat and 
attractive, seats about 45U, the vestry, or 
scnool room, is well arranged with class 
rooms, with lolding partitions; the basement 
is fitted lor gymnasium, tea parties, etc., bae 
waole steam heated. The Rev. N. W. 
Matthews, Ph. D., succeeded Mr. Spencer in 
181)4, and served three years. Rev. J. T. 
Barlow served from 1897 to 1901, during 
whose pastorate the parsonage was pur- 
chased, tnough in an incomplete stage. Rev. 
F. M. Bateman, D. D., was appointed in 
May, 1901, and during his ministry the par- 
sonage was completed. The present pastor. 
Rev. Dr. Elijah Humphries, accepted the 
call in May, 1904, and is therefore in his sec- 
ond year. 

The church suffered the loss of one-third 
of its membership by removals from the 
village on account of the long strike in the 
cotton mills, but these losses have been fully 
made good and a fair increase in member- 
ship secured. The changing character of the 
population— the English mill workers leav- 
ing the community and other nationalities 
taking their places— presents a serious prob- 
lem in common with the other Protestant 
churches of the south end. Apart from this 
the church is in a flourishing condition, and 
the prospects for the future cheering. 

The Church of the Ascension, the parent 
of all the Protestant Episcopal Churches in 
the city, was formed July U, 1836, in the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. Services were 
held in the Pocasset house till 1S37, when 
the parish moved to the town hall, on Cen- 
tral street, where it met till 1840, when it 
occupied the former building of the First 
Baptist Church on South Main street. This 
was burned in 1850, and at once replaced by 
a new edifice. In 1875 the parish removed 
to its present stone church on Rock street. 
The early services were in charge of a mis- 
sionary, George M. Randall, afterward Bish- 
op of Colorado, became the first rector in 
August, 1S40, resigning in 1844. Subsequent 
rectors have been: A. D. McCoy, 1845-47; 
E. M. Porter, 1849-G3; A. M. Wylie, ISfiS- 
G8; John Hewitt, 1870-71; Henry E. Hovey, 
1871-72; William McGlathery, 1873-75; Wil- 
liam T. Fitch, 187G-S1; A. St. John Chambre. 
1881-84; Emelius W. Smith since 1884. It 
supports St. Matthew's mission on Pine 
street. 

St. John's Church began as a mission 
branch of the Church of the Ascension. Its 



originators were Nathaniel Lewis, Nathan 
Crabtree, George VVatlers, Richard Fleet, 
George Hanson, William Wilde, William iioi- 
tomly and John Taylor. To these were soon 
added George Porteous and others, who took 
an active part in building up the mission. 
The first service was held in Connell's Hall 
Sunday, October G, 1878. For nearly three 
years the Rev. Arthur H. Barrington was 
minister in charge. In 18S1 the mission be- 
came independent and erected a wooden 
building on South Main street. The Rev. 
Samuel S. Spear became rector in June of 
that year and continued so for twelve year.s. 
As a result of his leadership the parish 
bought land, built a parish house, and on 
Easter Day, 1890, the first service for pub- 
lic worship was held in the present stone 
building on Middle street. The Rev. Her- 
man Page became rector in July, 1893, and 
was in charge for seven years. During this 
time the parish continued to increase in 
numerical and financial strength, a branch 
Sunday school, which has since become St. 
Stephen's parish, was started, and a three- 
story addition to the parish house built. Mr. 
Page left in October, 1900, and the present 
rector. Rev. Chauncey H. Blodgett, took 
charge April 21, 1901. 

St. Mark's Church began its life as a 
Sunday school, meeting in private houses 
among the English church people in the 
Flint. Later on the members met in the of- 
fice of the Wampanoag mill. It became or- 
ganized as a mission of the Ascension 
Church February 23, 188G. and held its ser- 
vices, in the little hall on Cash street, near 
Pleasant street— a building demolished in 
1904. The Rev. Percy S. Grant was electeil 
minister of the mission, and his right hand 
helpers were Joseph Shaw, for many years 
the treasurer of the church, and a most 
faithful and efficient leader; and Richard F. 
Smith, warden of the church until his death 
in the winter of 1905, and, like Mr. Shaw, a 
most loyal and devoted friend and servant 
of the parish. In 1S88 the edifice on Mason 
street was erected, Mr. Grant continuing his 
work until the summer of 1893. The Rev. 
John Franklin Carter was the second min- 
ister of the mission, coming to Fall River in 
the winter of 1893, and when, in 1894. the 
mission became an independent parish, Mr. 
Carter continued as its rector until the 
summer of 1900, having organized the 
Young Men's Club, which bears his name. 
The Rev. A. A. V. Binnington was rector 
from the fall of 1900 to the summer of 1903. 



118 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



The Rev. Edward S. Thonias, the presuut 
rector, coniiiienced his ministry in the fall 
of lyoii. The officers of the parish to-day are 
as follows: Rector, the Rev. Edward Sey- 
mour Thomas; Wardens, John R. Leeming 
and Harold Crook; Treasurer, Henry Lord; 
Clerk, William Burton; Vestrymen, John 
Blakely. John Buckley, Joseph Cheetham, 
Ernest Dowty (Financial Secretary), James 
J. Sampson, John Taylor and Thomas Wols- 
tenholme. 



Rev. J. E. Johnson, 1894-95. Under these 
men it had grown into a promising church, 
and in 1S!)7 it became independent. Rev. F. 
B. White became rector in that year, and 
under his guidance the present stone edifice 
in Gothic style, 40x85 feet, with a tower 57 
feet high, was erected. The audience room 
is 40xG0, and the chancel 24x24. Rev. J. W. 
Dixon followed Mr. White in 1901, and the 
present rector, Kev. J. J. Cogan, took charge 
in August. 1905 A. S. Babbitt is senior war- 



m 


»^-^ ' / H \ ^^1 


1 


1 


ki 


i'i ■ . 


* 


P 


if P'te,J 




»•.• 


■ 


-LJ' 9 


^m 


bsi 




. .f|lMIT.ii -af|M 


( • 



Iiitcn 



oi St. M.irk'i. Chv.rch. M.i 



Str, 



St. Luke's Protestant Episcopal Church 
dates from a house meeting held in the 
winter of 1891. In July of the next year, 
1892. the first money was raised to pay for 
land for the site of the church, at the corner 
of Warren and Oxford streets, and in July, 
189:i. the final payment was made. In this 
year the basement of the present church edi- 
fice was built to serve as a parish house 
and Sunday school room. The church had 
begun as a mission of the Church of the 
Ascension and for the first five years was 
in charge of Rev. E. \V. Smith and his assist- 
ants. Rev. Dr. Williams was in charge from 
1S92-9:!, Rev. Hugo Klaren. 189:{-94, Rev. Mr. 
Wainwright for a few months following, and 



lien. R. E. Fogwell treasurer and Henjamin 
Piggolt clerk. 

St. James' Episcopal Church is the out- 
growth of a mission established in 1871 in 
Tarrant Hall, on North Main street, over 
what is now Cobb & Reed's store, by Rev. 
Henry E. Hovey, of the Church of the Ascen- 
sion. It grew vigorously, but was allowed 
to lapse in 187.3. Ten years later, and nearly 
a mile farther north, on North Main street, 
many of those who had worshipped in Tar- 
rant Hall, together with others, founded St. 
James mission In Brightman Hall, taking 
the same name as the former mission. As 
a result of the tireless efforts of Rev. Er- 
nest Mariett. first as assistant to Rev. Afliert 



HISTORY OV FALL RIVER 



J 19 



St. John Chambre, rector o£ the Church ol 
ine Ascension, and afterward as minister 
in charge ol the new mission, a strong work 
was developed. The congregation began to 
worship in Brightman Hall in July, iss:j, 
and removed to their new church, on the 
corner of North Main and St. James streets, 
in March, 1SS5. A parish organization was ef- 
fected Dec. 7, 1884. Mr. Marriett"s rectorship 
terminated in Novemher, JSS9. Rev. John Mil- 
ton Peck was in charge for a few months. 
Rev. George Esdras Allen from the spring of 
1890 until his death on Ash Wednesday, 
1S9U. During the rectorship of Rev. Leslie 
Elias Learned, which lastej until Novem- 



bought on South Main street, facing Hicks 
street, and a substantial granite basement 
built upon it. The first service was held m 
this 'building on December 5, 1897. 

Since then the welfare of the mission has 
steadily advanced. In November, 1899, the 
Rev. Ernest Nelson Bullock assumed 
charge and remained until February, 19U4. 

The present officers of the parish are the 
Rev. Donald Nelson Alexander, minister m 
charge; James O. Mills, warden; James 
Harrison, clerk; and Walter Schofield, treas- 
urer. 

The First Christian Church, organized in 
iS29, erected a church edifice the following 



ber, 1897, the indebtedness was much re-^]^year. This was burned in the fire of 1843, 



duced. The next rector. Rev. William Por- 
teous Reeve, was succeeded in March, 1899, 
by Rev. George Winship Sargent, during 
whose incumbency the church was conse- 
crated free from debt. The present rector. 
Rev. Albert L. Whittaker, assumed his 
duties January 1, 1902. A parish house base- 
ment, GtJxll, was formally opened October 
1, 1905. 

Of the six Episcopal churches in Fall 
River, St. Stephen's was the last to lie 
established. It owes its origin to the tireless 
activity of the Rev. Herman Page, sometime 
rector of St. John's Church, who felt that 
there was a crying need for services in the 
southern section of the city. Under his su- 
pervision a Sunday school was opened in a 
paint shop on Charles street. This soon 
proved too small, and the school was 
moved to a barn on the same street. The 
work was placed in charge of the Rt. Rev. 
Logan Herbert Roots, Bishop of Hankau, 
China, who was at that time assisting the 
Rev. Mr. Page as a lay reader. St. Stephen's 
has ever afterward felt the effect of his 
powerful personality. 

Increase of attendance necessitated an- 
other removal, this time to Mills' Hall, on 
South Main street. It was here (hat definite 
steps were taken to organize the work as 
a diocesan mission, and a general meeting 
was held on the 23d of October, 189G. in 
Mills' Hall. Articles of incorporation wore 
applied for and a permanent or.ganization 
effected by the election of .lames B. Clifton 
as warden, John Isherwood as clerk and 
George Butcher as treasurer. The church 
was i)laced in charge of the Rev. Gilbert W. 
I.aidlaw. 

The need of a church building was now 
felt, and under Mr. Laidlaw, and with the 
cordial support of Mr. Page, a lot was 



and the present structure on Franklin street, 
erected in 1844. The pastors have been: 
Joshua V. Mines, Benjamin Taylor, William 
H. Taylor, James Taylor, Simon Clough, 
William Lane, A. G. Cummings, Jonathan 
Thompson, P. R. Russell, A. M. Averill, Eli- 
jah Shaw, Joseph Bodger, Charles Mor- 
gridge, Stephen Fellows. David S. E. Mil- 
lard, B. S. Fanton and Warren Hathaway, 
all prior to 18G0. Thomas Holmes became 
pastor in 1863, Hiram J. Gordon, 1865; S. 
Wright Butler, ISGG; P. W. Sinks, 1878-1880; 
M. Summerbell. 1S80-188G; G. B. Merritt, 
1886-84; Charles E. Luck, 1895-1902; F. H. 
Peters, 1904. 

The North Christian Church, situated on 
North Main street at Steep Brook, was or- 
ganized in 1842. The pastors have been: 
William Shurtleff, 18G1; Moses P. Favor, 
ISGG; Charles T. Camp, 1872; O. P. Bessey, 
1S74; O. O. Wright, 1S7G; C. A. Tillingha.st, 
June 11, 1S7G-April ]. 1879; J. W. Osborne, 
April 1, lS79-.Ianuary 4, 1889; George H. 
Allen, January 13, 18S9-July 1, 1900; T. S. 
Weeks. November 11, 1900-January 22, 1905; 
Walter B. Flanders, since April 1, 1905. 

The Bo.gle Street Christian Church was 
or,ganized December 3, 187G, from a Sunday 
school conducted for several years by Mr. 
and Mrs. John Kennelly. For several years 
the parish was under the spiritual oversight 
of Rev. S. W. Butler, pastor of the FIr.st 
Christian Church. Under his oversight the 
church grew, and in 1883 the first pastor, 
Rev. AVilliani Dugdale, was called. The pres- 
ent edifice was erected in 1SS5 and dedi- 
cated the first Sunday in January, 1896. 

The membership on March 30, 190G. was 
101. There is a large Sunday school, two 
Christian Endeavor societies. Ladies" Aid 
Society and a Young Men's Club. During 
the last fifteen years the church has sent 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



out seven of its young men into tlie worli 
of tile ministry. Tlie pastors liave been: 
William Dugdale, 1SS3-1SS4; E. Grant, 18S4- 
18S5; O. J. Wait, 1S85-1S87; D. Heron, ISSV- 
l.SSS; W. S. Lathrop, 18S9-1S90; G. A. Beebe, 
1N91-1895; M. W. Baker, 1896-1S9S; R. R. 
Shoemaker, 1898-19UU, and the present pas- 
tor, E. J. Bodman, since 1901. 

The first meetings of the Friends were 
held here in 1818, and were for several years 
in the care of the Swansea meeting, at what 
is now South Somerset. Previous to that 
dale the Friends in the southern section of 
the town had attended the Swansea meeting, 
which was more accessible than the one 
near Assonet. The services here were first 
held in a room in the second story of the 
Troy mill dyehouse, on the site of the 
present office of that corporation. The 
North Main street lot, the site of the pres- 
ent church, was purchased in 1821, 90 rods, 
at a net cost of $200, and a plain struc- 
ture, shingled on the sides and unpainted 
wilhin or without, erected on the north side 
of the lot, the following year. Land for a 
burying ground was left in the rear. A high 
stone wall was built on North Main street. 
The present building was erected in 1S:>G 
and remodelled in 1895 at a cost of $3,500. 
The former structure was removed to the 
north side of Cherry street, near Rock, and 
made into a tenement house, later to be 
again moved to the lower end of the street, 
where it still stands. In the thirties the 
congregation was large, and of the 56 heads 
of families in 1830. 15 were Bufflntons and 
IS Chaces. Henry C. Aydellot has been min- 
ister since 1877 and his wife, Phebe S. Aydel- 
lot, his colleague since about 1885. 

A Friends' mission has recently been 
started on Stafford road, where a chapel was 
erected and dedicated in April, 1900. 

The United Presbyterian Church dates 
from 1846. Its edifice was erected on the 
corner of Pearl and Anawan streets in 1851. 
Rev. David A. Wallace, the first pastor, was 
followed by William Maclaren, 1856-67; J. 
R. Kyle, 1807-75; .1. H. TurnbuU. 1870-85; W. 
.1. Martin, 1886 to the present time. 

The United Presbyterian Church has been 
one of the prosperous Protestant organiza- 
tions of the city, and has now on its roll of 
communicants 300 members. It has been one 
of the infiuential but conservative church 
forces of the city. It has been simple, steady 
and regular in its services and work. 

It has stood for services of worship ami 
for presentation of the truth of God as that 



bears on all life. The church has for more 
tnan 20 years been what may be called a 
free church. It has no pew rents. It levies 
no direct assessments on its members. The 
church owns all the pews, and any family 
uniting with it is allowed to have choice 
among the pews which may at the time be 
vacant. It makes no difference what the 
amount which the family may feel able to 
contribute, a pew vacant anywhere is open 
to selection. 

The church uses the envelope system for 
its entire finances. 

A member contributes regularly 1)y en- 
velopes, if so willing to do, what the member 
regards as proper. The method has not been 
a failure. It has been in operation for more 
than 20 years, and in that time the church 
has not once had a deficit to be made good 
at the close of the financial year. 

This condition has not been reached by 
special, large gifts on the part of a few. 
Those have not been such. It has been 
reached l)y the faithfulness of those enrolled 
as members. The change in the population 
of the city has affected the locality in which 
the church has its position, and scarcely any 
of the members now live near to the church 
building. Because of this there has been in 
recent years some consideration of an ef- 
fort to remove to some site which in the 
judgment of the church would allow a still 
better result than the present location. But 
whether a change of location will be a fact of 
the future or not, the prospect is that the 
church will hold on its way in a .good work 
and that its members will in coming years 
count even more than in the past as social 
and religious factors in the community life. 

The Globe Presbyterian Church is the 
outgrowth of a mission Sunday school or- 
ganized October 20, 1889, in the Republican 
headquarters at the Globe corners by the 
Rev. Mr. Morrison, a Sunday school mission- 
ary. His assistants were the Rev. John 
Brown, pastor of the Westminster Presby- 
terian Church, and Messrs. Winslow and El- 
liot, who were the first superintendents : 
George Donaldson and William Peters. The 
school soon removed to the Democratic head- 
quarters, and then to a small building erect- 
ed on Penn street, near South Main, whore 
services were first held December 15. 1889. 
Preaching was carried on regularly by Mr. 
Brown, and on October 13, 1S90. the church 
was organized, with 23 members. James 
Rarnshaw and Frederick Thorpe were the 
first elders. Rev. William Fryling became 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



12t 



the first pastor, April 1, 1S91, and remained 
three years. He was followed by Rev. Mr. 
White in 1S!)4, Rev. A. G. Alexander in 1S97, 
Rev. Roger Charnock in 1S98, Rev. C. W. 
Isicol in lyuo, Rev. Ci. A. Humphries in 19U1 
and Rev. Edward Eolls in 190(i. The church 
edifice on South Main street, at the corner 
of Charles, was erected in 1900 and opened 
February 10, 1901. The church has SO 
members and a Sunday school of 117. 

The Unitarian Church was organized in 
1832 by 74 men. among whom were N. B. 
Borden, Dr. Foster Hooper, Caleb B. Vickery 
and Hezekiah Battelle. Its first services 
were held in the old Line meeting-house, 
which stood on South Main street, a little 
north of Columbia, but it soon bought the 
First Congregational Church edifice, on the 
site of the Anawan School. In 1S34, when 
tne first pastor, George Ware Briggs, was 
called, the erection of the present church 
edifice was begun, on the corner of Borden 
and Second streets. This was dedicated 
January 25, 1835. The basement was rented 
for storage. In 1839 the society was incor- 
porated, with Dr. Hooper the first moderator. 
Mr. Briggs had resigned in 1837, and was 
followed in 1840 by A. C. L. Arnold, -who re- 
mained one year. John F. Ware was pastor 
from 1842-45. and was succeeded in 1847 l)y 
Samuel Longfellow, brother of the poet, who 
remained till 1851. Subsequent pa.stors have 
been .Josiah K. Waite, 18.52-58; William B. 
Smith, 1859-63; Charles W. Buck, 18C3; 
.Joshua Young, 1S6S-75; Charles H. Tindell, 
1S7.5-77; Edward F. Hay ward. 1878-S3; A. J. 
Rich. 1883-90; Arthur May Knapp, 1891-97; 
John Mills Wilson, 1897-1905; John B. W. 
Day, since March, 190G. The present lot on 
North Main street was purchased in 1S59, 
and the church building removed to its pres- 
ent location in ISCO-fii. 

The Fall River branch of the Reorganized 
Church of .Tesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 
was organized by Elder James W. Gillen, 
December 3. 1865, with 13 members. The 
organization, perfected, stood as follows: 
President of the branch, William Cottam; 
first priest, Thonms Gilbert; second priest, 
James Hacking; teacher, Charles Gilbert; 
deacon and secretary, John Gilbert. 

For some time the meetings were held in 
private houses, but the growth of the or- 
ganization soon made it necessary to en- 
gage a hall. During the year the member- 
ship increased from 13 to 48. The flr.st Sun- 
day school of the branch was organized 
Pabruary 25, 1S6C. Edward Rogerson was 



Superintendent, assisted by Charles Gilbert 
and .lohn McKee. The first church was built 
from October to December 24, 1876, at a cost 
of $1,038, on Claflin street, the present loca- 
tion. At this time the membership numbered 
81. The building answered for all purposes 
until April, 1882, when it was enlarged sev- 
eral feet. The church was destroyed by fire 
November 12, 1893, with damage estimated 
at $1,100, and rebuilt by the insurance com- 
pany. The church was remodeled and en- 
larged again during 1903 at a cost of about 
$3,000. The 40th anniversary was observed 
December 3, 1905, at which time the statis- 
tics showed that there had been 17 presiding 
elders who had served the organization, with 
17 secretaries. There had heen 357 bap- 
tised, 103 expelled, 42 deaths, 77 removals 
and 71 received by letter from other 
branches. 

The organization has grown steadily in 
the face of adverse circumstances; has 
fought down prejudice and has at last com- 
pelled the people of Fall River to recognize 
the fact that it is antagonistic to the doc- 
trines as taught by the Mormon Church of 
Utah, there being no affiliation between the 
two churches, the Reorganization being (he 
strongest enemy of that institution. At the 
last report the membership of the branch 
was 162. The present presiding elder is 
Frederick G. PiR; secretary, W. A. Sinclair, 
M. D.; treasurer, John Gilbert, M. D. The 
auxiliary societies are: Sunday school, pres- 
ent enrollment ISO; superintendent, John 
Pilling; secretary, Charles Cockcroft; Zion's 
Rcligio Literary Society (Young People's So- 
ciety), organized 1900, present membership 
70: president, Susan E. Gilbert; secretary. 
Elizabeth Heap; Ladies' Aid Society, presi- 
dent, Mrs. M. E. Cockcroft; secretary, Mar- 
garet Billington. 

The Advent Christian Church is the out- 
growth of meetings of that denomination 
held about 1842 in the First Christian 
Church, and also at Steep Brook. In 1843 
Elder I. I. Leslie, Roland Grant, Enoch Mer- 
rill and others held meetings in a large tent 
at Bowenville, following which services were 
continued for a time in Pocasset Hall. Elder 
C. H. Sweet held meetings in Hoar's hall In 
1884, and in 1887 Mary H. Winslow and 
Mercy Arnold began meetings in the Troy 
Building, at which others soon assisted. 
After a few months removal was made to 26 
Himter street. Tent meetings wore held by 
Elder William A. Birch, in September. 1887, 
and the church organized October 27. Land 



122 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



on Coral street was purchased, and the 
chapel erected and dedicated September 19, 
ISSS, in connection with the sessions of the 
Bristol and Plymouth Counties conference. 
The pastors have been C. H. Sweet, T. W. 
Richardson, H. E. Thompson and A. R. 
Mead. 

The Church of the New Jerusalem was or- 
ganized in 1851, with seven members, and 
erected its edifice on Rock street in 180!). 
The society had previously met in various 
halls, and was led by the Rev. .John Westall, 
who was also reader. Mr. Westall was or- 
dained as the first pastor October 21, 1877, 
and served till May 25, ISSt;. His successors 
have been: Henry C. Hay, May 25, ISSti- 
July 31, 1S87; George S. Wheeler, March IS, 



1888-July l>. IS'M; Clarence Lathbury, March 
29, 1891, to October 15, 1S'J4; Gardner I. 
Ward, March 18, 1895-June 21, 1903; Duane 
V. Bowen, the present pastor, since Novem- 
ber 1, 1904. 

A Church of Christ (Scientist) was or- 
ganized May 19, 1892, and now meets in the 
Archer building on Rock street. 

The First Spiritual Church and Lyceum 
was formed in 1S58 and is pushing plans for 
the erection of a temple. , 

The Jews have three congregations here — 
the Sons of Jacob, the Union Street Syna- 
gogue and the Congregation Adas Israel. 

There are also three colored churches — the 
African M. E. and the Shiloh and Union Bap- 
tist. 



.'l*^'*:$*Tr 



■^•'"llW^>li..;J 








CHAPTER XV 



THE CATHOLIC CHURCH 



The Diocese of Fall River. Beginnings of Cattiolicity Here. 
Paristies Wilfi Their History 



Numerous Strong 



Fall River is a sliong Catholic city, with 
possibly iwo-thii'ds, if not more, of its popula- 
tion members of this faith. It is the cathe- 
dral city of the diocese that bears its name, 
and has twenty large and active parishes, 
with a number of stately and exceedingly 
beautiful church edifices, erected at great 
cost and the a<lmiration of Catholics and non- 
Catholics alike. To these have been added 
parochial schools, convents, academies, or- 
phans' homes and, lately, a magnificent hos- 
pital. Xo cathedral has yet been erected, 
on account of the brief period since the 
present diocese was formed, but there is 
every reason to believe that when such a 
structure does rise here it will be a credit to 
the city and the Church. 

The growth of the Catholic Church here 
has been almost entirely since the Civil War, 
though the mass was said in Fall River as 
early as 1829. This section was then a part 
of the diocese of Boston, and remained in 
that see until the erection of the diocese of 
Providence, in 1872, when it became a part of 
the charge of the bishop there. The diocese 
of Fall River was formed March 12, 19(11, 
consisting of Bristol, Barnstable and Dukes 
counties and the towns of Marion and .Matla- 
poisett, in Plymouth County. Rt. Rev. Wil- 
liam Stang was consecrated the first bishop 
on .May 1, 1904. in the cathedral at Provi- 
dence. The first Episcopal residence here 
was at the northeast corner of Winter and 
Cherry streets, from which it was removed 
to the Job Leonard mansion on Highland 
avenue in 1905. St. Mary's Church, the old- 
est Catholic house of worship in the city, 
was named as the pro-cathedral. 

Though it 'has been impossible to deter- 
mine accurately when the service of the 
church was first held here, it is believed to 
have been in 1829, in the kitchen of a woman 
named Kennedy, with an altar made of the 
kitchen table covered with a white cloth. 
Father Corry, of Taunton, was the celebrant. 



and came here at intervals of from one to 
three months. Two years later, in 1829, 
the total Catholic population here, accord- 
ing to Bishop Fenwick's diary, was but 20 
souls, but by 1832 it is estimated to have in- 
creased to 50, including children. 

T. e first attempt at organization appears 
to have been made toward the end of 1834, 
and on February 18, 1835, Father Corry 
purchased from Peter McLarrin 38>^ rods 
ot land on Spring street, the site of St. 
.Mary's Church, for $059.07. In 1837 a small 
wooden chapel without a cellar was erected 
and given the name of St. John the Baptist. 
New vestments were purchased and an 
altar erected, and the following year Father 
Corry took up his residence here. He was 
soon after succeeded by Father Hardy, and 
in 1840 by Rev. Edward Murphy, who had 
come here from the Penobscot Indians in 
-Vlaine. Meanwhile the Catholic population 
had increased, with the growth of the com- 
iiunity, and Fr. Murphy enlarged the church 
by an e.\tension at the rear, which carried 
the altar and six pews over the line into 
Rhode Island, while the rest of the church 
was in Massachusetts. A basement was also 
constructed and a day school organized, 
taught by Michael Hanrahan. A cottage on 
Spring street was purchased and fitted as a 
rectory, and in 1847 Father .McNulty was 
sent here as an assistant to Father Murphy, 
who then had char.ge of the parish of New 
Bedford, as well as Fall River. 

The congregation grew so rapidly that a 
new church became a necessity, and soon 
after 1850 the work of building a basement 
for the structure was begun about the old 
building. The cornerstone was laid by Bish- 
op Fonwio k August 8, 1852, and the walls, 
with the exception of that in front, carried 
up to their present height. The old structure 
was then sawed in two and removefl to the 
site of the present rectory, on Second street, 
where services were held till St. Mary's was 



124 



HISTORY OF FALLy.RTVER 



completed. The steeple and vestry were not 
yet built, 'but aside from these it was as 
it is now — a granite edifice 12G.\71, with an 
interior height of 90 feet and a seating ca- 
pacity of 2,0U0. The name was changed to 
the present title. The old chapel wais de- 
stroyed by fire July 12, 1S56, and from that 
time services were held in the present 
church. 

The population of the parish continued 
to increase so rapidly that it was several 
times divided. The Sisters of Mercy came in 
1S74 and a parochial school started under 
their charge, first in their home on Rodman 
and Fourth streets, and the following year 
in the chapel, which had been rebuilt after 
the fire. The present convent was pur- 
chased in 1S75, and tue chapol moved across 
the street and enlarged for school purposes, 
where the school has since been held. The 
cornerstone of a new building better suited 
for the purposes was laid this spring. Father 
Murphy, after his long and active service, 
passed away in Ireland, whither he had 
gone for his health, .luly 9, 1S87. His re- 
mains were brought to this city and placed 
in the vault beneath the church which he 
had l)nilt, August 1, 1887. 

Rev. Christopher Hughes, the present pas- 
tor of St. Mary's, succeeded Father 'Murphy 
in Septem'bor, 1887, and under his care the 
parish has prospered. The church was ren- 
ovated throughout, statuary, side altars, 
stained windows, a marble high altar and 
other notable improvements have been made, 
additional real estate purchased and the 
church consecrated in September, 1901, 

St. Patrick's, as well as other early Catho- 
lic parishes, was formed by a division of St. 
Mary's, and dates from 1873. Rev. John 
Kelly, the first pastor, said mass in a build- 
ing known as the "broom factory," which 
was followed by a temporary wooden church. 
Fr. Kelly spent years in collecting and solf- 
denial for securing funds for a new edifice, 
and on September 18, 1881, the cornerstone 
of the present imposing structure was laid. 
He died in January, 1S85, and was succeeded 
by Rev. Thomas P. Grace, who was able to 
open and complete the church in 1889. A 
parochial school had been opened in 1S8C, 
and a convent secured for the Sisters of 
Mercy In 1887. Rev. Michael J. Cooke, who 
succeeded Falher Grace In 1S90, and is still 
(he i)as(or, rebuilt the school and has laid 
out much In the Improvement of the prop- 
erty. 



The parish of the Sacred Heart was 
formed from St. Mary's parish soon after 
the erection of the diocese of Providence, 
and land for the church on Linden street was 
purchased by Fr. Murphy of St. Mary's in 
1S72. Plans for an edifice were prepared, 
but after the apiwintment of Rev. Francis 
Quinn in January, 1873, these were dis- 
carded and new ones drawn, on which the 
erection of the present church was soon after 
begun. Rev. Mathias McCabe, the present 
pastor, when appointed in the autumn wf 
1S71, found the building not half done and 
the parish in debt |80,000. The church was 
completed and dedicated in September, 1S83. 
In ISSf) a large brick schoolhouse was 
erected and placed in charge of the Sisters 
of the Union of the Sacred Heart, but not 
entirely finished until 1893. 

The parish of St. Joseph's was formed in 
1873. on the same day as St. Patrick's, with 
Rev. William Brie the first pastor. Land was 
purchased, a temporary wooden church erect- 
ed and the cornerstone of the present edifice 
laid August 15, 1880. Fr. Brie died Augu.st 
7, 1880, and was succeeded by Rev. Andrew 
Brady, who lived until shortly before the 
completion of the church, a fine brick build- 
ing, which was dedicated May 30, 18S5. Rev. 
Bernard Ooylan, who succeeded Fr. Brady, 
is still the pastor. Somerset was a mission 
of the parish until 1S77. 

St. Ixjuis' parish was formed in May, 1885, 
also from St. Mary's, and the first mass was 
said on the 24th of that month, in the old 
thread mill at the corner of Mulberry and 
Division streets. The cornerstone of the 
present structure, which faces the Soulii 
Park, was laid October 18, 1885. and within a 
year the basement was completed and occu- 
pied. The church was dedicated May 11. 
1890. Rev. Louis Deady, the first pastor, 
remained until the fall of 189ti. and saw the 
erection of the church, the parochial resi- 
dence and the Holy Name Institute, at an 
approximate cost of $80,000. Rev. James H. 
Fogarty. the present pastor, has been in 
charge since 1885. St. Ixiuis parish has a 
handsome brick parochial school, situated on 
Division street. 

St. Vincent's Orphanage.— The St. Vin- 
cent's Home Corporation was granted a char- 
ter by the Commonwealth on February 7, 
1889, "for the purpose of caring, maintaining 
and educating Indigent children." The St. 
Vincent's Home, as It is popularly known, 
was founded in 1SS5, while Fall River was a 
part of the diocese of Providence, under the 




St, Mary's Church 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



episcopate of Rt. Rev. Thomas F. Hendrick- 
en, D. D. Bishop Hendricken's successor, Rt. 
Rev. Matthew Harkins, D. D., was the first 
corporate president of St. Vincent's, Rev. 
Bernard Boylan its first treasurer and the 
late Gilljert P. Cuttle its first clerk. Cor- 
nelius S. Greene has been vice-president of 
the home from its inception. Rt. Rev. AVil- 
liani Stang, D. D.. Bishop of Fall River, is 
now president and treasurer. Rev. Bernard F. 
McCaliill clerk, and Rov. Mortimer Downing 
resident chaplain of the home. Rev. Mr. 
Downing is also supervisor of Catholic chari- 
ties for the Fall River diocese. The or- 
phanage is located on North Main street, op- 
posite Baldwin street, at Steep Bi-ook. The 
grounds consist of several acres, beautifully 




St. Vinctnt Home 

Situated between the street and Taunton 
Great River, and picturesquely variegated 
with hill and vale, trees, shrubbery and 
water. The site of the home at the time 
of purchase was a pleasure garden known as 
"Forest Hill," and otherwise known as "Ash- 
ley's Grove." The wooden buildings on the 
grounds served the purpose of the orphan- 
age until 1894, when the present brick struc- 
ture, an up-to-date building with all modern 
appointments and belongings, was erected at 
a cost approximating $75,000. The home is 
now entirely free from deibt, due to the 
I iiergy of Rev. Cornelius Kelly, who for sev- 
eral years managed the collection of the 
liquidatlo'n funds, and to the generosity of 
the priests and people of the diocese. St. 
Vincent's is in charge of the Sisters of 
Mercy and shelters between 240 and 2r)0 
children: its first manager and superintend- 
ent was Sister Magdalen, and on her death 
the vacancy was filled by the appointment of 
Sister Mechtilde. the present incumbent. 

Ste. Anne's parish* was the first French 
religious organization forn\ed here — In 1SG9, 
two years after the Immigration of the Cana- 



*Froni a paper contributed by Rev. Paul 
V. Charland, O. P. of Ste. Anne's. 



dians to this city began in earnest. The rec- 
ords of St. Mary's Church, the parent church, 
show no French names previous to 18G2, but 
in that year the baptismal book bears the 
names of Elise Levalte (Levalee) and James 
Goslin, probably an Anglicized form of 
.lacques Gosselin; in 1SG3, Thomas de 
Courcy; in 1804, Agatha Dubois and Albert 
Dubois. There is no French christening in 
18C5, but six in IS'iG, IS in 1SG7, a large num- 
ber in 1808, increasing again to a cou^der- 
able extent in 1SG9, when Ste. Anne's parish 
was formed. Thus the beginning of French 
immigration to Fall River may be traced 
to some time after the War of the Secession, 
about 18(i7. 

If Canada is nowadays a prosperous coun- 
try, almost as much, proportionately, it is 
said, as the United States, it was not so 
some forty years ago. Operatives were paid 
very low wages, and it is no wonder that, 
hearing of high salaries awarded to people 
of their crafts In the States, they crossed 
the boundary line. 

They came, one by one, two by two, and 
finally by the score, and Mr. Dubuque's val- 
ual)le work on the origin of the French col- 
ony in Fall River states that they num- 
bered about 3,000 In 18G9. 

Rev. A. J. Derbuel, formerly pastor at 
West Boylston and afterwards appointed 
curate at St. Mary's Church in ISGS. was the 
first French priest who attended to the Cana- 
dians of Fall River. His name appears in St. 
Mary's records from the 1st of Sep- 
tember to the 21st of October of that 
year. The Rev. Olivier Verdler, also a 
French missionary, continued his work, 
but only for a short time, as he 
die<l in 1SG9. .\ third French priest. 
M. F. Le Breton, signed the register October 
22. 1SG9. That same year I'Abbe Paul Ro- 
niain-Ix)uis-Adrien de Monlaubricq (honor- 
ary canon of Bordeaux), a descendant of a 
noble family in France, arrived in Fall 
River, and naturally all grandsons and 
granddaughters of France, so dear to all 
French Canadians, flocked around him. He 
was already the pastor of the French popula- 
ti<m. and might have severed at once from the 
Irish one. l)y renting a hall or some large 
house, where he could assemble with his 
people. But he thought it was best not to 
part as yet from SI. .Mary's and to enjoy for a 
Utile while limger her generous hospitality. 
His name api)ears In St. Mary's records for 
the first lime August 2. ISfifl. and for the 
last October 23 of the same year. Courteous 




Stc. Anne's Church 



128 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



always, as all members o£ the French nobili- 
ty, nevertheless he failed in some respects, 
tne old people say. As he was a. great 
speaker, he happened sometimes to expa- 
tiate jusi a little bit too much in his ser- 
mons, and consequently his mass was hard- 
ly finished when it was time for another to 
begin. The work consisted first in estab- 
lishing a new parish, a thorough French 
parish, and in building a church; the latter 
was erected at the corner of Hunter and 
Hope streets, where the schools of Ste. Anne 
•are now located. It is said that, in the 
course of the construction, he met with an 
accident which might have proved fatal, 
but that he escaped without any serious 
harm, because of his having invoked the 
Good Saint. Through gratitude, he had the 
church dedicated to her sacred name. A 
part of the foundations only remain at pres- 
ent, and these have been used as a support 
for another wall. There remains only an 
entire ruin of what should have been kept 
as a vivid souvenir of bygone days. 

This little chapel was the mother-church 
of several others, and one cannot help being 
amazed at the wonderful expansion of 
Fi-ench Catholicity in this city. 

At the Flint Village, where the gorgeous 
Church of Notre Dame de Lourdes now 
stands adorned with the still more gorgeous 
painting by Cremonini, lived a large group 
of the so-called "Frenchies." They were 
far away from Ste. Anne's and, besides, the 
church was getting too small for the ever 
increasing jxipulation. At last they de- 
cided to have a new house of worship built, 
and also a priest of their own nationality. 
Local history here gives many a detail 
showing the deep attachment of the 
"Frenchies" to their mother language. 
"Frenchies" may perhaps like to talk busi- 
ness or anything else in English, but, as 
Bishop Stang says his prayers in Gorman 
and acknowledges the fact freely, so they 
insist upon their right that, being French, 
their religion should be French. Their 
patriotism was so great that it was only 
after great didiculties and contests which 
the Holy Sec had to settle that a second 
church was finally established in July, 1874, 
at the Flint Village, and Rev. P. ,1. B. 
Bedard appointed pastor. 

On December .'5, 1SS7. twelve or thirteen 
years later, a third parish was founded at 
Howonvllle. and called St. Matthew, after 
the patron saint of Bishop Harkins of Provi- 
dence. 



The parish of Ste. Anne did not seem to 
be impoverished by this continual output 
of her own wealth. New children were 
constantly being added to her, and so much 
so that hardly two years later she was 
able to organize a fourth congregation at 
the Globe, where Father Delemarre's beau- 
tiful church now basks in the sunshine. 
Some six or seven years more and St. John 
the Baptist of Maplewood is created (1899). 
The church is not yet completed, when 
St. Roch, the Benjamin child of the old Ste. 
Anne, is brought to life. This may not be 
the "end of it." The French population of 
Fall River, which amounted to three thou- 
sand in 1S70, as may be seen above, has 
gradually increased to thirty-five — some say 
forty — thousand people, and. although the 
old Mother Ste. Anne has been divided into 
five or six parts, there is always more left 
to offer to some curate to guard and 
protect. 

Were one making a speech or indulging 
in poetry instead of writing dry history, he 
might here add a few comments in regard 
to the generosity and liberality of the 
French population, but facts are better and 
speak for themselves. 

To buy extensive lots, build churches, rec- 
tories, parochial schools, academies and 
hospitals; to tear down the old structures 
in order to erect better ones. and. in fact, 
masterpieces of architecture, and at the 
SEune time support financially the priests, 
and school teachers by the score, besides 
the sisters, never to complain of giving too 
much, that continually denotes a spirit of 
devotedness and liberality which is inherent 
to a remarkable degree in the French. It 
has been asked often by outsiders or pass- 
ers-by how the new Ste. Anne's Church could 
possibly have been constructed, because no 
many, esi)ecialy from New York or large 
cities, judging from ai)pearancos. deem its 
cost to be about a million dollars. In fact. 
it is hardly one-half of this sum. but half a 
million dollars, considering the average con- 
dition of the people, mostly all laborers, is 
a not insignificant amount. Not one of 
the priests of this city who does not give 
his most heartfelt thanks lo the fathers, 
mothers, sons and daughteirs. who liave 
given spontaneously, year after year, and 
week after week, part of their limited earn- 
ings, for the welfare and advanconicnf of 
this parish and the glory of God. Riferring 
to the quest i(ui asked liy the passer-by, 
"Who built Ste. .-Anne's Church." the beauti- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



J29 



lul monument which calls forth so much 
praise and admiration, this is the only truth- 
ful answer: "It is the factory boy and the 
factory girl." 

Since the first missionaries of Ste. Anne 
Derbuel, Verdier and Montaubricq were 
succeeded by the Rev. Fathers Briscoe and 
Clarke, the latter now at St. Theresa's, in 
Providence. Especially to the first Domini- 
can pioneers, who gave such a powerful 
impulse to this parish, the Fathers Mothou, 
Esteva, Sauval, Therien, Cormevais. Father 
Sauval met witli great success at Ste. Anne's, 
and was devoted to his parishioners. With 
ever increasing zeal he felt both for their 
spiritual and temporal affairs, with ability 
in business matters, and energy and firm 
hope in the future. He built five or six 
parochial schools and the Academy on Park 
street ; the ideal lot where Ste. Anne's 
Church and rectory are now located, and 
constructed the rectory and part of the 
foundations of the new church. Rev. 
Father Raymond A. Grolleau, the present 
pastor of Ste. Anne's, carried on the good 
work. What seemed an impossibility after 
Father Sauval's death, an impossibility for 
a score of years and maybe half a century, 
viz.: the continuation and completion of 
the church he made feasible at his first ar- 
rival in this city. The completion of the 
church demanded an expense of about $300,- 
000, but he feared nothing, and so persua- 
sive was his pleading that none had any ob- 
jections, neither the bishop, the Rt. Rev. 
.Matthew Harkins, nor the parishioners, not- 
withstanding all they had already done for 
their parish. 

Ste. Anne's Church was dedicated on 
July i. 190G, and its doors are now 
thrown open to the public in general, when 
every one visiting this magnificent struc- 
ture will readily pronounce it a masterly 
piece of work. Some churches may seem 
to some more elaborate, more ornamental 
(more theatre-like), but considering the 
style which has been adopted, the old Ro- 
man Byzantine, and remembering also the 
limited means of the people, every connois- 
seur will acknowledge that nothing bet- 
ter, even nothing else could have been 
done. 

The completion of Ste. Anne's Church 
calls forth improvements from all sides. 
Quite recently the Dominican Sisters of the 
Academy on Park street, formerly only ten 
or twelve, now numbering fifty, decided to 
considerablv enlarge their establishment. 



and with this end in view have bought a 
lot of land adjoining their own, at the same 
time making plans for an extensive addi- 
tion. 

What is no longer a plan or an idle 
dream, but an attractive reality, is 
Ste. Anne's Rectory, now being con- 
structed in a line with the vestry of the 
church, and built in the same style and 
materials as the church itself. Whoever 
will look at its size, its costly rough or 
face-hammered blue marble of Vermont, its 
fine gables and turrets and porches and 
other different details, will certainly con- 
gratulate the Dominican Fathers for their 
deep sense of aesthetics, and their love of 
the beautiful, if he is told that they intend 
to pay for that house, almost a palace, out 
of their own financial resources. 

Ste. Anne's Hospital, built and paid for 
by the Dominican Sisters of Charity of 
Tours. France, was dedicated February 4, 
190G, with elaborate ceremonies in the pres- 
ence of an immense gathering of clergy- 
men, laiwyers, city officials, headed by 
Mayor John T. Coughlin, religio-niilitary so- 
cieties and members of all professions. This 
hospital was suggested by Rev. Father 
Urolleau a few years ago. He had seen in 
his native land of France some of the 
finest institutions of that kind in the world, 
in charge of Sisters who were trained 
nurses, and he had had many an opportu- 
nity to appreciate the excellent work done by 
tnese women. After long negotiations with 
the Sisters, he succeeded in bringing them 
here with enough of their own funds to 
realize his dream of a fine hospital. With 
considerable difficulty he purchased from 
the Messrs. Jonathan and James Chace. of 
Providence, the lot of land he coveted, just 
opposite his church, on the right hand side 
of Middle street — an ideal location for the 
purpose for which he intended it. The 
building is four stories high, with the base- 
ment, and covers an area of 11,824 square 
feet. Its appearance is imposing, even in 
its embryo form, for in accordance with 
the complete plans which have been drawn, 
additions will be made as soon as there is 
a demand for them. At present the struc- 
ture is composed of three sections, one on 
Middle street, extending 183 feet long, an- 
other on Sotith Main street, extending 19S 
feet, and the third one on Oliver street, 
measuring 100 feet. 

It belongs to no special style of archi- 
tecture, except the gables, built In Flemish 



130 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



style, really Spanish style, since this has 
been copied from the Spanish by the Flem- 
ish architects. Except this little ornamen- 
tation, the general lines are very simple, and 
an inspection of the initerior will at once 
prove that the whole building has been 
uevised in view of its usefulness. 

Space, light and air ami the arrange- 
ments for the heating, the lighting and ven- 
tilation are perfect. There are five wards 
for the sick, two for the men and three 
for the women, one of each class for the 
medical and the others for surgical cases. 
There are also about forty private rooms, 
and some suites with a sleeping room, a 
combination sitting and dining room, a 
toilet room, with bath and all the accessories. 
The operating room is one of the best ap- 
pointed in the country, and many a doctor 
says it is surpassed by none. The fourth 
lloor will not be completed for some time, 
but, minus this floor, Ste. Anne's Hospital 
can easily accommodate from 100 lo 125 
patients. The Sisters in charge are at 
present Reverend Mother Marguerite, pres- 
ident; Sister Gonzague, secretary of the 
corporation, registered druggist and trained 
nurse of exceptional ability; Sisters Made- 
leine, Camille, Aquilin, Matthieu, Flora, 
Theotime, Jeanne, Marguerite, all profes- 
sional nurses, or "infirmieres," as they are 
called in Prance. Professional nurses, 
among whom is Miss Amilie Despins. for- 
merly of the Union Hospital of this city, are 
giving their help to the Institution, and a 
nuni'ber of Sisters are to come from the 
old country. 

The corps of physicians and surgeons, or 
"the staff," was well .selected. In May, 1900. 
it was composed as follows: President. Dr. 
P. A. A. CoUeitt; vice-president, Dr. George 
L. Richards; secretary, Dr. J. E. Huard. 
Attending surgeons: Drs. .1. E. Lanoie, .1. B. 
Trainor. .1. A. Barre, A. I. Connell, H. G. 
Wilbur. A. C. Lewis. Attending physicians: 
Drs. P. A. A. Collet. H. A. Rosa. S. V. Mer- 
rill, F. de n. Bergeron, ,1. P. A. Garneau. M. 
A. nianchette. Specialists: Genlto-urinary 
and skin diseases, Drs. George E. Luther 
and A. Fecteau; ear nose and throat, Drs. 
G. T>. Richards and .1. E. Huard: eyes, Drs. 
A. St. George and O. H. .lackson; children's 
diseases, Drs. Michael Kelly and J. S. Le- 
hoeuf; orthopedic surgeons. Dr. P. T. Crls- 
po and E. F. Curry; pathologist, Dr. Mary 
W. MnrvoU; bacteriologist, Dr. D. R. Ryder; 
anao»thetists. Dr. P. TI. Beckett, P. .1. A. 
Dufault, ,T. D. Beauparlant ami J. E. Mer- 



eier; dentists, Drs. T. P. Sullivan and J 
Homer Barre. Consulting physicians: Drs. 
S. J. Kelly, John W. Coughlin. J. B. Chag- 
non, George S. Eddy, William H. Butler, A. 
S. MacKnight and Thomas F. Gunning. 
Consulting surgeons: Drs. A. W. Buck, R. 
W. Jackson, Dwight E. Cone, W. T. Learned, 
Ubald J. Paquin, of New Bedford, and Joao 
Pitta, also of New Bedford; Drs. Garceau 
and Jones, of Boston. 

Before long an addition to the hospital 
will be made, when the Ste. Anne's old Rec- 
tory is moved across Middle street to the 
lot in front of the south wing of the build- 
ing, where it will be remodeled and turned 
into a boarding house for young women 
who work in mills or commercial establish- 
nients and whose parents do not live here. 

The Dominican Fathers have other plans 
in mind which they will propose later on. 
They have already made of w"hat a few 
years ago consisted only of vacant lots and 
swamps one of the finest spots of the city. 

Notre Dame de Lourdcs is probably the 
most powerful French Roman Catholic 
parish in the United States. It was formed 
in 1S74 by a division of the parish of Ste. 
Anne, then the only French Catholic church 
in the city, and has grown rapidly with the 
phenomenal increase in the French popula- 
tion in the eastern section. Rev. Pierre 
Jean-Baptiste Bedard was the first pastor 
and was greatly beloved by his people, with 
whom he remained until his death, in ISSt. 
He was succeeded after a year by the Rev. 
J. M. LaFIamnie, and in 1SS8 by Rev. J. A. 
Prevo'jt, the present pastor. The first 
church was a frame structure, which stood 
on Bassett street, on ground now partly oc- 
cupied by St. Joseph's Orphanage. It was 
destroyed hy fire in November, 1893, but 
after a few months it was possible to hold 
services in the basement of the present 
beautiful church, which had been begun :n 
1S91. This basement has since been used 
as a place of worship, but it is expected 
that the main auditorium will be ready for 
occupancy in September. The church is 
of granite, of imposing architecture and will 
represent a total cost of $;!00.000. The 
style Is pure Corinthian and without a pil- 
lar In the whole vast church, allowing an 
unobstructed view of the altar. There arc 
no galleries, except a small one in the roar 
for the choir and organ. The celling is 
adorned with a beautiful palnlln.g of the 
I^st Judgment, by Ludovic Crcnionini. a 
celebrated Roman artist, who has also paint- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



J3t 



ed an allegory of the Holy Rosary for the 
rotunda, one of the Immaculate Conception 
for the arch between the sanctuary and the 
nave, and other subjects for general decorei- 
tion. The stucco work was done by an- 
other Italian artist, Signor Castagnoli. The 
splendid new rectory on Eastern avenue 
and Bassett street was completed in 1S97 
at a cost of $30,000. 

Connected with the parish is the orphan- 
age of St. Joseph, which cares for 350 chil- 
dren, and occupies a large structure built 
in 1893; the Jesus Marie Convent, dating 
from 1877, and a large and commodious 
parochial school and college, completed in 
1898, at a cost of $75,000. This was or- 
ganized in 1882 and is situated on Bassett 
street, near Ashton. It has 1,100 pupils. 

The Church of the Blessed Sacrament, 
formerly St. Dominic's, was started as a 
mission of Ste. Anne's, and was founded by 
the Dominicans. P. Gillant, O. P., was the 
first pastor and was succeeded in 1892 by 
Rev. L. O. Massicotte. The cornerstone 
of the present handsome church on Town- 
send hill was laid July 4, 1902. Rev. D. V. 
Delamarre is in charge. 

St. Roch's dates from May, 1S99, when it 
was started by Rev. J. E. Th. Giguere, the 
present pastor. The first mass was held 
in the hall of the Ligue des Patriotes. Land 
has since been bought and a frame church 
erected on Pine street. 

Santo Christo parish (Portuguese) was 
founded by Rev. Pr. Neves in 1S91. It was 
attended from New Bedford until July. 1892, 
when the Rev. C. A. Martens became pas- 
tor. He was followed in June, 1898, by Rev. 
F. S. Mesquita, who is still in charge. The 
contract for the construction of the base- 
ment of a new church was recently award- 
ed. 

St. Michael's started as a mission nf 
Santo Christo. The basement for a 
church was opened in 1896. The pastor is 
Rev. Manuel C. Grilla. 

The other Catholic parishes here are 
Espirito Santo (Portuguese) and Madonna 
de Rosario (Italian). St. Stanislaus Catho- 
lic (Polish) Church is located on Rockland 
street and has a commodious parochial 
school on the same street. Another Polish 
church known as the Independent Polish 
Catholic Church is located on West Globe 
street. 

SS. Peter and Paul's parish was formed 
in April, 1882, with Rev. Patrick Doyle the 
first pastor. For nearly a year mass was 



said in a large store until the first church, 
a frame structure, was ready for occupancy. 
The cornerstone of the present edifice was 
laid June 7, 1890, and the church dedicated 
March 25, 1900. 

Father Doyle died in the summer of 1S93 
and was succeeded by Rev. Bernard F. Mc- 
Caliill, the present pastor. 

The Immaculate Conception parish was 
also formed in April, 1882, with Rev. Owen 
Kiernan the first pastor. Land was bought 
at once and the cornerstone of the present 
structure laid April 14, 1883. Rev. Cor- 
nelius McSweeney is the pastor. 

St. Mathieu's parish was organized in the 
fall of 1S8G. Rev. J. A. Payan, the first 
priest, bought the site of the church the 
following year, and soon after began the 
construction of the basement. The corner- 
stone was laid September 3, 1893, and the 
building dedicated September 20. 1896. Rev. 
L. A. Casgrain, who succeeded Fr. Payan, 
was pastor from 1888 till February, 1895, 
when he was followed by Rev. J. G. Levalle, 
who is still in charge. 

The parish of St. John Baptiste, on Staf- 
ford road, is comparatively new. It is in 
charge of Rev. H. J. Musselly. 

St. Williams parish, named as a delicate 
compliment to Bishop William Stang, it is 
said, was organized in May. 1903. with Rev. 
Patrick McGee in charge. A church is 
under construction. 

The Convent and Academy of the Holy 
Union of the Sacred Hearts, on Prospect 
street, under the care of the Sisters of that 
name, was established in ISSC, when the Sis- 
ters bought the property, erected an academy 
building and took charge of the Sacred 
Heart parochial school. They now have 18 
members and 12 novitiates, with 550 pupils 
in the school and about 80 in the academy. 
A new building of brick and stone, three 
stories in height, is being erected, and when 
completed will furnish accommodations for 
150 pupils. I 

The Sisters of St. Joseph, numbering 25, 
who came here in 1902. have three houses, 
the principal one on Tremout street, and 
instruct about 1,200 pupils in the St. Roch's, 
St. Mathieu's, Blessed Sacrament and 
.Maplewood |>arochial schools. Land has 
been purchased at Townsend Hill for the 
erection of a home for the Sisters. 

Other convents are those of the Ladies 
of Jesus-Mary, of Our Lady of Perpetual 
Succor and the Dominican Sisters. 



CHAPTER XVI 



CLUBS, LODGES, SOCIAL AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS 



Y. M. C. A., Boys' Club, Home for Aged People and Similar Institutions. Quequechan Qub, 

and Masonic and Other Lodges. The Militia. Labor Unions 

and Labor Troubles 



The leading club iu the cily is the Queque- 
chan, which has a large and comfortable 
house on North Main street, iwhere nearly 
all the distinguished visitors to the city 
have been entertained in recent years. Among 
these have been the Honourable Artil- 
lery Company, of London, when it was the 
guest of the Ancient and Honorable Artil- 
lery Company of Boston; the delegations of 
prominent Filipinos who visited the United 
States as the guests of the nation, and Gov- 
ernors and other high dignitaries. The 
club was formed in 1893 in part as a succes- 
sor of the old Commercial Clu'b, with 25 
charter members, of whom William F. 
Hooper, ,Iames E. Osborn, Edward Barker, 
F. O. Dodge, David Beattie and Dr. D. A. 
Babcock were the more active. The mem- 
bership soon increased to 200 and now con- 
sists of 235 resident and 95 non-resident 
members. The William Mason house was 
purchased and greatly enlarged to its pres- 
ent size. William F. Hooper and James E. 
Osborn have been president and vice-presi- 
dent, respectively, since its organization. 
Frederick O. Dodge was the first treas- 
urer, succeeded by Edward I. Marvell and 
shortly after by Edward Barker, the present 
officer. R. P. Borden was the first secre- 
tary. That office is now held by P. A. 
Mathewson. 

The first Young .Men's Christian Associa- 
tion here was formed in the spring of 1857. 
with R. K. Remington, Walter Paine, 3d, 
William H. Mason, .lohn C. Milne, Elihu An- 
drews, John D. Flint. Alexander T. Mlinc 
anil Walter C. Durfee among its prominent 
supporters. R. K. Remington was president, 
James B. Pearson secretary and Charles J. 
Holmes treasurer. The association lived 
until the outbreak of the Civil War, when it 
gave up Its work, in common with many 
similar organizations. It was reorganized 



in ISGti, with George B. Durfee president. 
He was succeeded by E. C. Nason in 1870, 
l>eroy Sargent in 1873, Ray G. Huling and 
J. H. Pierce. The work was discontinued 
in 1880. 

The present association was formed eight 
years later, in 1.SS8, with James F. Jackson 
president, Andrew J. Jennings vice-presi- 
dent, W. Frank Shove recording secretary, 
and Enoch J. French treasurer. Mr. Jack- 
son was succeeded in 1891 by Rev. Percy S. 
Grant, who held office till the fall of 1S93, 
when he resigned to remove to New York. 
A movement to raise funds for a building 
was started at this time, and about $19,000 
paid in, with which the site of the present 
building was purchased. 

The home of the association from 1888 till 
1895 was in the Slade house, so-call- 
ed, at the corner of Elm and North 
Main srtreets, generously contributed rent 
free by Mrs. Mary B. Young. The 
selection of the site of this structure 
for the new public library building 
made removal necessary and the store- 
room on the southeast corner of North 
Main and Pine streets was occupied till the 
old house that stood on the site of the 
present building could be renovated and 
made ready for occupancy in the fall of 
lS9fi. 

Shortly after entering this building Mr. W. 
D. Fellows, of Erie. Pa., was engaged as 
general secretary, and his coming to the 
city marked the beginning of a new era 
for the Association. He was a man of mag- 
netic personality, rare executive and busi- 
ness ability, combined with unusual spirit- 
ual gifts, and under his administration the 
Associalion gathered fresh impetus. Mr. Fel- 
lows was aljly assisted during this crucial 
period by Mr. Arthur Rndnian. 'who resigned 
in 1904 to accept a position in the work at 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



133 



Manila, Philippine Islands. umltT Ihe Inter- 
national Committee. 

A gymnasium was ereotod in IH'Jd. and in 
April, 1900, the building fund for the present 
structure was started with a gift of $10,000. 
Other contributions brought the fund up to 
about $77,000, and work was begun in the 
spring of 1901. The cornerstone was laid 
September 21 of that year, and the build- 
ing dedicated April 19, 1903. with addresses 
b.v prominent cit.v officials and others. 

It is a handsome four-stor.v structure of 
hammered Fall River granite and gray 
Roman brick, with a frontage of 86 feet on 
North Main street and a depth ranging from 



sachusetts and Rhode Island. The third 
floor front contains a kitchen with modern 
accessories, and dining room, and the fourth 
floor is given up to dormitories, from which 
an annual income of over $3,000 is derived. 
The basement of the combined structure 
contains separate lavatories and locker 
rooms for junior and senior departments, 
swimming pool and bowling alleys, and a 
photographic dark room. 

The building proper cost $90,000, and with 
the connecting gymnasium and the land 
represents an investment of $125,000. As 
a result of a special effort early in 190G the 
property is frfc Irotu ddii. 




Y. M. C. A. Buildint: 



75 feet on Pine street to S7 feet on the 
north. The front elevation is an American 
modification of the French Renaissance 
style and most attractive. The Iniilrling is 
handsomely finished, with a large reception 
room, reading and game rooms, and a small 
hall on the first floor. 

A pretty auditorium, with a seating ca- 
pacity of 548. occupies the east half of the 
second and third floors. This is called Rem- 
ington Hall, in memory of Robert K. Rem- 
ington, whose widow was a large donor to 
the building fund. It contains an excel- 
lent portrait in oil of Mr. Remington. The 
west half of the second floor is given up to 
the boys" work, with comfortable and cosy 
quarters. The Association has the largest 
boys' department in the two States of Mas- 



The Association now has 1,051 regular 
members and 232 contributing non-members, 
and is in a prosperous condition and doin.g 
an excellent work among the youn,g men of 
the city. Andrew J. Jennings is president, 
having succeeded Mr. Grant in 1893. The 
other officers are: Leonard N. Slade, vice- 
president: Charles D. Bufflnton, treasurer; 
Ralph B. Smith, recording secretary. 

The secretaries have been: George M. 
Stowell. 1889-91: A. N. Lowe. 1891-90; W. D. 
Fellows. 1897-1905; D. M. Spence, since 1905. 
Associated with Mr. Spence on the execu- 
tive force are Ernest P. Conlon, assistant 
secretary: William .1. Davison, physical 
director: George L. At wood, assistant phy- 
sical director, ami .lolm II riper, boys' work 
director. 



J34 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



The Women's Union was stalled late in 
1873, and on December 15 opened a room 
in the Troy fJuilding, where worliing women 
might come lor enjoyment and assistance. 
Mrs. A. G. Hart was the first president. A 
sewing school was begun in 1879, and in 
1883 the rooms over the Union mill office 
wore offered and have since been used. 
Classes in millinery, dressmaking, cooking, 
etc., have been successfully carried on. A 
day nursery was established December 27, 
18SG, but discontinued after two years. In 
1887 the Union was incorporated. The Work- 
ing Girls' Club, which now has a member- 
ship of 200 and is the largest of its kind 
in the State, was formed in 1891, and has 
always been self-supporting. Up to 1893 the 
Pleasant street rooms were opened certain 
evenings in each week — since then they 
have been open every week day evening 
from October to June, four evenings being 
devoted to the Working Girls' Club and two 
to the Happy Girls' Club. October 14, 1896, 
the Home on Pine street was opened. These 
rooms were furnished by various societies 
and have been kept under the supervision 
of a resident matron. 

The Industrial Exchange was opened De- 
cember 1, 1S9G, and has been self-supi)orting 
except that the Union has provided rooms, 
rent free, in the Pine street home. In 1904 
a lot of land on Rock street, corner of Frank- 
lin street, was presented to the Union, and 
upon this lot it is intended to erect a build- 
ing suitable for its various needs, including 
a reading room and reception or waiting 
room, where any woman (from in town or 
out of town) may find a convenient and 
comfortable resting place. A committee 
was appointed to devise means for raising 
the desired amount of $50,000, and circu- 
lars were issued in October, 1905. During 
the next three months more than half that 
amount was pledged, and It is now hoped 
that Fall River may soon see the Women's 
Union established in its own home. 

The Home for Aged People, which now 
occupies a handsome brick building on 
Highland avenue, providing a comforta^ble 
home for between 25 and 30 persons of ad- 
vanced years, Is the outgrowth of a move- 
ment begun in 1891 by John D. Flint. John 
S. Brayton, Hon. Milton Reed, Mrs. Hannall 
Almy, Mrs. Charles Dui-fee, Mrs. David M. 
Anthony. Mrs. John H. lloono. Miss A. B. 
Wrlghtington, Mrs. Rdward S. Adams and 
others. The old Leland house, on High 
street, was rented for the first home. The 



late Robert Adams gave a lot on Highland 
avenue as the site for a new building, and 
an active canvass for money to pay the cost 
of erecting a structure, aided by a gift of 
$15,000 from M. C. D. Borden, justified the 
beginning of work in the latter part of Oc- 
tober, 189C. The structure, which is of brick, 
7GV& by ZIV2 feet, was completed at a cost 
of $41,000 and dedicated in March, 1S9S. 
Various individuals, churches and societies 
furnished the (building, which has a com- 
manding view, is finished in whitewood and 
North Carolina pine and excellently arranged 
for its purpose. As a result of numerous 
legacies it now has invested funds amount- 
ing to about $50,000. The present officers 
are: President, John D. Flint; Vice-Presi- 
dents, Milton Reed and Mrs. D. M. Anthony; 
Secretary, Miss A. B. Wrightington; Treas- 
urer, Edward S. Adams. 

The Boys' Club of Fall River was organ- 
ized February 1, 1S90. The first impulse for 
its formation came from Rev. John C. Col- 
lins, representing the Christian Workers' 
Association of New Haven. The late Rev. 
Edwin A. Buck was a prime mover in the 
orgaivization. Local citizens took hold of 
the work with heart and soul, and from that 
time to the present interest and faith have 
never faltered and the club has steadily 
grown, until now it ranks with the highest 
in efficiency, iwwer and progress. The first 
home of the club was on Third street — one 
room, with a piano, a few tables and bench- 
es, several mottoes on the wall, were its 
only adornment. A corner was railed oft 
for a toilet room, with two tin hand basins 
and a roller towel. A book case filled with 
books occupied another corner. This was 
the beginning, and yet the boys came, were 
happily entertained, and thought the two 
hours spent in the room in the evening 
passed altogether too quickly. In less than 
a year the club outgrew this home, and 
rooms in Vermont Block, Pocasset street, 
were procured and occupied. The present 
building was given by M. C. D. Borden, 
of New York, a native of Fall River, and 
was dedicated January 12, 189S. 

It has indeed been to the members of the 
club a true home in every sense of the 
word, and the Iwys take the greatest pride 
in keeping it without mnr or disfiguration. 
Thro\igh the generosity of Mr. Borden the 
club has been able to extend its privileges 
to other organizations, and to young men 
who have long needed the Influence of such 
a place, where they could spend their even- 



HISTORY OF FALL RWER 



135 



ihgs. Mr. Borden has iwatohed the work 
grow with unabated interest, and is at the 
present time enlarging the worlv by erecting 
and giving to the club another building, 
connecting in the rear and facing Pocasset 
street, which will be larger than the present 
structure and adapted in every department 
to the needs of these older boys. The old 
adage "Tall oaks from little acorns grow" 
is illustrated in the Boys' Club of Fall River. 
The exterior of both of these buildings is 
fire-flashed buff ibrick, with brown stone 
trimmings. The one now occupied is 90 feel 
long, with a depth of 75 feet. On the ground 
floor is a hall, with seating capacity of 500. 
A lil)rary, gymnasium, reading room and 



towards the club, and was always ready lo 
sanction any plan that would lead to the 
lorniation of high principles and noble char- 
acter in any of its members. 

The superintendent. Thomas Ohew, has 
been with the club since its formation, and 
it is owing largely to his unremitting lal)ors, 
zeal, forethought and tact that the club 
holds its present position in the community 
and country. 

The club was incoriwrated in 1892. The 
present officers and directors of the club 
are: George A. Chace, president; John D. 
r'lint, vice-president; James W. Bence. 
treasurer; Harriet H. Brayton, secretary 
(the president, vice-president and secretary 




Children's Ho 



net Walnut .,nd Robcton Sir. 



office, all finished in oak. The second story 
nas four class rooms. The third story is 
the home of the superintendent, with a large 
game room. In the basemenL are to be 
found a swimming pool, bowling alleys and 
biilhing facilities. 

The extension will be 141 feet long and 
have an average width of 65 feet. The gym- 
nasium will have an area of 9,000 square 
feet and be 22 feet high, with no columns. 
There will be 2S shower baths, a kitchen, 
dining room and many other special fea- 
tures. 

The membership of the club is l.SOO. 

The late Rev. Edwin A. Buck was the first 
president of the club, and retained the office 
until his death, March 10, 1903 (thirteen 
years). Mr. Buck helil a parental feeling 



were charter members); Richard J. Thomp- 
son, M. D., Cornelius S. Greene, Mrs. E. H. 
B. Brow, Mrs. Jefferson Borden, Mrs. Jiimes 
Osborn. 

In 1S9G George W. Dean gave to the club 
the Dean farm, in Freetown. Many of the 
members go there in summer for a two 
weeks' outing. 

With the superintendent to lead on, the 
club cannot but always be one of the bea- 
con lights in the history of the city. 

The Children's Home of Fall River, which 
now cares for about 80 boys and girls, 59 
in its building at the corner of Robeson and 
Walnut streets and 21 in private homes, 
and by its last annual report had sheltero<l 
CSS children since its foundation in April, 
]S7:{, was incorporated by act of the Legisla- 



136 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



mie, allowing the Fall River Orphaus' Asy- 
lum and tiie Children's Friend Society to 
unite and constitute one corporation. 

'I'honias J. Borden was the first presi- 
dent, Thomas F. Eddy and Dr. J. L. Clarke 
vice-presidents, John C. Haddock secretary, 
and Samuel R. Buffinton treasurer. The 
iioard of managers was composed of promi- 
nent and influential people who recognized 
the necessity of charitable work, and who 
were willing to ■devote themselves to allevi- 
ating distress and misfortune in Fall River. 
A traet of land 300 feet square was pur- 
chased, and a substantial frame building 
was erected at a cost of $10,018.26, and dedi- 
cated to its work on February 27, 1874. 

It was necessary to mortgage the prop- 
erty, and for many yeare it was a stru.ggle 
to meet obligations. 

In 1SS2 Simeon B. Chase and George H. 
Hawes felt that it was time that some ef- 
fort should be made to liquidate the indebt- 
edness so as to put the Home on a substan- 
tial financial basis. Subscriptions were 
solicited and nearly $1 2.000 was obtained, 
and all indebtedness cancelled. 

In 1883 John M. Bryan donated $1,000, 
which was the beginning of the permanent 
futid. now amounting to $83,377.52. The in- 
cDMU' from the investment of this fund pro- 
vides money which pays about one-half the 
annual expenses. The rest of the money 
necessary to maintain the Home is derived 
from the board of some of the children, and 
from the annual contributions from the 
churches at Thanksgiving. The home was 
full all of the time, and it soon became ap- 
parent that larger accommodations were 
necessary. At the suggestion of Mrs. Sarah 
B. Chace, widow of Edmund Chace, steps 
were taken to interest the people of Fall 
River to furnish the means to build a new- 
brick building, which resulted in the erec- 
tion of the present home building, dedicated 
May 20, 1895. This building cost $23,000, 
the greater part of which was generously 
given by Mrs. Chace, who had been a mem- 
\)er of the original board of managers, and 
had always taken great interest in the wel- 
fare of the Children's Home, and was con- 
versant with its needs. 

Thomas J. Borden, the first president, was 
surrceiled in Oclober. 1S74, by Thomas F. 
Eddy, who held the oflRce of president until 
October. lS7fi, when Dr. James M. Aldrich 
was elected. Dr. Aldrich resigned in 18S!) 
on account of failing heallh, and was sue- 



teiiied by ilie present incumbent, NathanieJ 
B. Borden. 

The present officers are as follows: Presi- 
dent, Nathaniel B. Borden; Vice-Presidents, 
Robert T. Davis, Charles B. Cook, Oliver S. 
Haiwes and Mrs. William Beattie; Treasurer, 
Benjamin S. C. Gifford; Corresponding Sec- 
retary, Miss Lydia H. Read; Recording Sec- 
retary, Miss Ellen M. Shove. 

The Deaconess Home was founded large- 
ly through the efforts and benefactions of 
John D. Flint, who, becoming impressed 
with the value of the work, about 1888 em- 
ployed Miss Emma Ross as a city mission- 
ary. Her reports were so encouraging that 
a meeting of representatives of all the Meth- 
odist Churches in the city was called Decem- 
ber 21, 1892, and the following year a cor- 
poration was formed. Mr. Flint gave $10,- 
000 as an endowment, and in 1891 the Ben- 
jamin Covel estate, on Second street, was 
purchased for the headquarters of the work. 
The Salvation Army, whose work now has 
the respect and assistance of all, was begun 
here November 3, 1883, when Captain and 
Mrs. Hulmes came to this city to inaugurate 
it at the request of William Brooks, a local 
citizen iwho had been a member of the army 
before emigrating from England. The first 
quarters were in the old opera house in 
Court Square, where it remained 11 years, 
removing to the southeast corner of Pleas- 
ant and Third streets anA subsequently to 
other rooms, till in November, 1903, it occu- 
pied its present citadel on Bedford street, 
which had erected for its work. This is a 
lirick building with a commodious hall on 
the first floor, and on the second a dormi- 
tory with 34 beds, shower baths and reading 
rooms. A salva.ge department has also been 
established and a brass band of 22 pieces 
organized. The membership is now 125. 

The Young Men's Irish-American Catho- 
lic Total Abstinence and Benevolent So- 
ciety was formed January 28, 1872, as the 
result of the efforts of Patrick E. Foley. Dan- 
iel Downing. Timothy Harrington and Frank 
O'Brien. Its first quarters were in the Con- 
cert Hall building on Pleasant street, from 
which It removed to Mayhew Hall on August 
in. Carrolton Hall, the next home, was oc- 
cupied from May, 1877 to 1895. when the 
Quinn. Woodland & Co. building, the D. D. 
Sullivan building and SI. John's Hall were 
occupied within a few months. Work on 
the building on Anawan street, now occu- 
pied by the society, was begun July 31, 
1895. and the structure dedicated January 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



137 



27, 189G. It is of red brick, witii bulf briclv 
and terra cotla trimiuiugs flnislied in NorUi 
Carolina pine, willi library, smoking and 
lounging rooms and a hall (il leet square. Us 
cost, witii furniture, was $21,(;T2. The Irish- 
American Guards and a drum corps were or- 
ganized in 1SS9, and an auxiliary, the Woni- 
ei 's Catholic Associates, in 1S92. F. A. 
O'Brien was the first president, and among 
his early successors were Marcus Leonard, 
Patrick E. Foley, Thomas F. Cunneen, P. Al. 
McGlynn, P. H. Baldwin, Edward F. Murphy. 
.-Augustus P. Gorman, John H. Carroll, 
.James F. Manning, Michael H. Connolly, 
Thomas Donohue, ,)ohn Casey and Daniel .1. 
Harrington. The present officers (April. 
1900) are: President, James Fagan; V.'ce- 
President, Thomas Fitzpatrick; Recording 
Secretary, Frank L. Coyle; Corresponding 
Secretary, Thomas Geary; Treasurer, Ber- 
nard F. Doherty; Finanoial Secretary, 
James M. Manning; Assistant, John H. 
Murphy. The membership is 510. 

The Masonic societies are represented by 
-Mount Hope Lodge, instituted December 8, 
1824; Narragansett and King Philip Lodges, 
Fall River Royal Arch Chapter, Fall River 
Council of Royal and Select Masters, God- 
Irey De Bouillon Commandery of Knights 
i'emplar and the Purple Consulate. The 
order is making great advances in member- 
ship and has a conifori;il)l<' hall on Frank- 
lin street. 

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows 
lias four lodges — Mount Hope, dating from 
March 5, 1845; Friendly ITnion, from Sep- 
tember 5, 1873; Loyal LTnity, from June 4, 
1881, and Fall River, from December 1, 1892. 
.Metacomet Encampment was instituted in 
1847. These are supplemented by Canton 
Beard. Patriarchs Militant. Loyal Puritan 
and Olive Branch lodges. Manchester Lenity, 
the I'nited Sisters. I. O. O. L., M. U., and 
Hiawatha and Minnehaha lodges, D. of R. 

The Knights of Pythias have seven lodges 
— Mount Vernon, Anawan, Puritan. Lafay- 
ette, Pocasset, Star and Excelsior — and two 
sections of endowment rank. The Rathbone 
Sisters have two temples — Damon and Rath- 
bone. 

The English are well represented in the 
four lodges of the Sons of St. George — 
Livingstone, U. S. Grant. Ronnie Red Rose 
and Cromwell — and the I'niformed Rank, 
Napier Commandery. The Daughters of St. 
George have two lodges — Britannia and 
Primrose. 

The Foresters have a large representa- 



tion here in courts We'll Try, Liltlejohn. 
Good Samaritan, Progress, Benevolence, On- 
ward, Victory, Rochambeau; Court Lady 
of Victory, of the Massachusetts Catholic 
Order of Foresters; Courts Work and Win, 
Robin Hood, and a juvenile court of the 
Ancient Order of Foresters, and Courts Sau- 
val, Notre Dame and St. Ann of the Catholic 
order. There is also an organization of the 
Companions of the Forest. 

The Ancient Order of Hibernians have 
five divisions, known as Nos. 1, G, 11, 14 and 
IG. 

In addition to these many others could be 
named, including Pocasset Council of the 
Royal Arcanum and its ladies' auxiliary; 
the Weetamoe Chapter of the Order of the 
Eastern Star; Fall River Commandery of 
the United Order of the Golden Star; Har- 
mony Lodge, Order of Brith Abraham; 
Mount Hope, Puritan and Volunteer Colo- 
nies of the United Order of the Pilgrim 
Fathers; Troy, Fall River and Priscilla 
lodges of the New England Order of Protec- 
tion: Fall River and Quequechan Conclaves 
of the Improved Order of Heptasophs, and 
Pilgrim and Plymouth lodges of the United 
Workmen. 

From the close of the Civil War until 187G 
Fall River had two companies of militia, 
known us, B and D, of the Third Regiment. 
liiit they were disbanded in the reorganiza- 
tion of the militia in that year. In Novem- 
ber, 1878, a petition for a new company was 
circulated and granted by the Governor. On 
November 29 an order was issued for Sierra 
L. Braley to recruit a company to be at- 
tached to the First Regiment, M. V. M., and 
known as Company M. The rolls were 
opened December 5 and sent to Boston the 
follov.-ing day with 57 names. This was the 
beginning of what was afterward known .is 
Battery M, and now as the Twelfth Com- 
pany, Corps of Coast Artillery, M. V. M. 

The company was mustered in December 
12. and on December 17 elected Sierra L. 
Braley captain, V. O. Sayward first lieuten- 
ant and Charles E. Tetlow second lieuten- 
ant. Arms were received in April, and on 
May 30. the new organization made its first 
public appearance, as escort to Post 4fi. 
G. A. R. Since then it has taken part in all 
tours of duty performed by the regiment. 
Il attended the funeral of General Grant in 
1885. the Philadelphia celebration in 1887. 
(he 2511th anniversary of the sedlement of 
Providence in 188(1. the McKinley Inaugural 
parade in 1901. and was slatiouetl at Fort 



J38 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Greble during the joint army and navy 
manoeuvres in 1902. It has an enviable rec- 
ord for efficiency, discipline and attendance 
at drills. 

On the 25lh of April, 1X98, the day war 
was declared with Spain, Captain Braley re- 
ceived orders to "assemble his command 
and await further orders." In one hour the 
men were assembled, had answered the roll- 
call and were armed and equipped to answer 
the call of the President. Early the next 
day it was on its way to Fort Warren, where 
it was mustered into the United States ser- 
vice for two years, on May 9, a part of the 
first volunteer regiment in the country to 
be mustered in. It served there under 
.Major James A. Prye until September 19, 
when it went lo South Framingham to be 
mustered out. A furlough was granted Octo- 
ber 5, and the federal duty ended November 
14. 

Uy act of the Legislature the regiment to 
which the company belon.ged was changed 
to the Heavy Artillery June 1, 1.S97, and 
Clompany M became Battery M. In accord- 
ance with the statutes of 190.T it assumed 
its present title November 1, 190.5. 

Captain Braley resigned January 1, 1899, 
and on February 14 was succeeded by Cap- 
tain David Fuller, the present commanding 
officer. William J. Meek is first lieutenant, 
and Harry W. Skinner second lieutenant. 
Others than those named who have been 
lieutenants are James F. Jackson, Charles 
U. Wiwdnian, John D. Munroe. Horace K. 
Whitney. Walter F. Borden and Fred W. 
Harrison. 

Company F, Naval Brigade, was formed 
September 30. 1892, under General Orders 
No. 1.5, of September 26, in accordance with 
an act of the legislature allowing the form- 
ing of four companies as the Seconil Bat- 
talion, Companies were also formed at the 
same lime in Fall River, New Bedford and 
Lynn. .lolin D. Munroe was the first lieu- 
tenant chief of company, with Nathan Dur 
fee and William B. Edgar lieutenants, junior 
gra<Ie, and Richard P. Borden and W 
Wetherell, ensigns. Mr. Munroe retired 
December 11, 1894, with the rank of lieuten- 
ant commander. He was succeeded by Wil- 
liam B. Edgar, who served till his resig- 
nation December 24, 1897. George R. H. 
Hulflnlon. Mr. Edgar's successor, was 
elected lirutenant commander and was fol- 
lowed by William H. Beallie June 4, 1900. 
and by Milton I. Deane March ITi. 1904. The 
latter resigned Dccemlier 4. 190.5, to become 



paymaster on the stalT, and since then John 
'1", Nelson, lieutenant, junior grade, has been 
acting chief of company, with John Al. 
Young, Jr., ensign. 

Company I was formed as a reserve com- 
pany May 25, 1898, at the outbreak of the 
war with Spain, and was one of four com- 
panies organized at this time. William B. 
Edgar, who headed the petition for the com- 
pany, was elected lieutenant, chief of co.m- 
pany, with Richard P. Borden lieutenant, 
junior grade, and George W. Palmer ensign. 
Mr. Edgar resigned November 3, 1899, and 
was succeeded by Richard P. Borden till 
February S, 1904, and by William M. Old- 
ing till November 11, 1904. Since then the 
company has been in charge of Minor W. 
Wilcox, lieutenant, junior grade. Charles A. 
MacDonald is ensign. 

Company I as a whole was not called into 
active service during the war with Spain, 
but the men of Company F served on the 
Lehigh and Prairie, and in some cases were 
detached for duty on other vessels. The 
Signal Corps was also called out. 

The Prairie detachment, which numbered 
about 30 men, were a part of the first detail 
of the naval brigade to respond to the Pres- 
ident's call for men, and reported at the 
Brooklyn Navy Yard at 9 o'clock Sunday 
morning, April 24, 1898, in response to an 
order from Theodore Roosevelt, then As- 
sistant Secretary of the Navy, the day be- 
fore, received here on the afternoon of the 
23. and now preserved at headquarters. The 
Prairie served first on pati-ol duty, and 
aI)out July 1 was transferred to Cuban and 
Porto Ricoan waters, where it went on the 
blockade. One member of the company, 
Lynwood French, died of disease during the 
conflict. The Lehigh was attached to the 
Northern Atlantic patrol fleet. 

Headquarters and the Signal Corps were 
brought here on the election of Mr. Buffin- 
ton as lieutenant commander, in 1900. 



^ THE GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC. 

Richard Borden Post No. 40. G. A. R., 
was organized January 22, 1SC8, and reached 
its greatest membership— 494— in 1895. This 
has now fallen to 210. The list of past 
commanders includes Frank McGraw. John 
H. Abbott, Joseph Harrison. John M. Deane 
and Amos M. Jackson.. 

The officers for 190C are: Commander, 
.lohn Gilbert; Senior Vice Commander, 
.loseph Bowers: Junior Vice Commander, 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



J39 



George Hanson; Adjutant, F. H. Channell; 
Quartermaster, Edward Hague; Officer of 
Day, Gilbert Arnold; Officer of Guard, 
James Holehouse; Chaplain, Albert S. 
Palmer; Surgeon, Charles M. S. Gerry; 
Sergeant Major, Robert Fielden; Quarter- 
master Sergeant, William McLane. 

The present handsome armory, of Fall 
River granite, was completed in 1S97. It 
contains on the first floor rooms for the 
Twelfth Company, anil another when 
needed, as well as a drill hall, 1.50x75. The 
quarters of Companies F and I, Naval Bri- 
gade, are on the second floor, rooms for 
two others on the third, and a gymnasium 
on the fourth. Land owned by the city on 
the south side of Pine street, opiwsite Rug- 
gles Park, was first selected as the site for 
the structure, but abandoned in deference 
to the general desire. Prior to the erection 
of the armory the militia was quartered in 
a frame building on Bedford street, and 
later on the upper floor of the Central En- 
gine House. Another building on the cor- 
ner of Fourth and Pleasant streets was 
rented for Company P. 



Fall River has had its share of labor 
troubles, some of them extended and a 
severe blow to the welfare of the communi- 
ty. Since the 1ST9 strike, however, they 
have been notable for the orderly behavior 
of those on strike, even under trying con- 
ditions, a fact of which all have been proud, 
the sympathizers with the mill owners no 
less than those who sided with the opera- 
tives. 

The first serious trouble began in July, 
1870, when the spinners struck in protest 
against a reduction. By August 24 some 
of the men had returned to work, and on 
that day a large crowd gathered at the Dur- 
fee Mills. The police felt unalile to handle 
the situation and the fire dopartmont was 
called on to disperse the crowd with its 
hose. The two local military companies 
were called to their armory and two others 
brought here from Taunton, but were not 
sent out. The strike, which had lasted just 
two months, ended September '['>. when the 
spinners returned to work at the reduction. 

The "Great Vacation" began early in 
August. 1875, in the decision of the opera- 
tives to take four weeks' rest, believing that 
a curtailment was a better remedy for the 
situation than the cut in wages proposed. 
At the end of that time the manufacturers 
decided on another vacation of equal length. 



George Gunton was prominent in the labor 
meetings at this time. The mills started 
up on September 27, but required the op- 
eratives to sign an agreement not to belong 
to any labor organization. One clause was 
misunderstood and led to a demonstration 
near the city hall and the calling out of 
five companies of militia, two from this city, 
two from Taunton and one from New Bed- 
ford, who remained here until Saturday. 

The strike of 1S79 on the part of the 
spinners for an advance of 15 per cent is 
still remembered for its bitter spirit, en- 
gendered largely 'by the bringing of strike- 
breakers here, to be quartered on the pro|)- 
erty of the corporations. It was marked by 
occasional violence, and lasted from June 
15 to October 2G. and was unsuccessful. 
Mr. Gunton was again prominent in labor 
meetings. 

In 1SS4 occurred the "ton-mills' strike" 
against a reduction, which lasted eighteen 
weeks, and was also unsuccessful. It be- 
gan early in February and affected the two 
Border City Mills, the Sagamore No. 1. 
the three Union Mills, the Warapanoag No. 
1. Tecumseh No. 1, Slade and Chace. These 
were assisted financially by the other mills 
during the strike, and the idle operatives 
received aid from those at work. 

The strike of 1894 was against a reduc- 
tion, and hegan as a "vacation" of the 
operatives August 24. The spinners later 
declared a strike, and returned to work 
October 15 on a compromise, by which their 
wages were cut only 5 per cent, instead 
of the in of the others. This was to be 
restored if the margin was 85 cents for the 
next sixty days. Many of the weavers re- 
mained out till October 30, when they ac- 
cepted the reduction. 

The strike of 1904 was the longest and 
most disastrous in the city's history and fol- 
lowed the announcement of a 12% per cent, 
reduction of wages, the second within a 
year, to which were addetl a feeling of re- 
sentment at what was regarded as high- 
handed action on the part of the manufac- 
turers and the opix>sition of the weavers to 
being asked to run more looms. In the 
vote of the unions on the strike question, 
July 21, three — the weavers, loom fixers and 
slasher tenders — were recorded in favor of 
suspending work, and the carders and spin- 
ners also showed a majority in favor of this 
course, though they were counted in oppo- 
sition because they did not have the neces- 
sary two-thirds vote. The textile council 



MO 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



had recommended acceptance of the reduc- 
tion, but as three of the five unions favored 
a strike it had no course but to order one, 
which went into effect Monday, .July 25. The 
strike was carried on till the 2Gth week, 
when, on January IS, at a conference before 
Governor Douglas at Boston, the labor lead- 
ers agreed to an immediate return to work 
at the reduction, with the condition that 
the Governor should investigate the situa- 
tion and report a margin on which a five 
per cent, dividend should be paid on wages 
earned. The operatives returned to work 
the following day, and on January 21 a re- 
duction was announced in the Fall River 
Iron Works, which had been kept running 
at the full scale throughout the strike. The 
strike is estimated to have cost the opera- 
tives $4,500,000 in wages lost. About $200.- 
000 was paid out in benefits by the unions, 
including $2G.500 to non-unionists. The 
overseers of the poor were rushed with ap- 
plicants, and considerable sums were sent 
iiere from outside for the aid of the strikers. 
Several thousand persons removed from the 
city and the merchants lost heavily by the 
decline of trade. Various fruitless confer- 
ences were held during the struggle. At 
one held November 5 it was agreed that the 
books of the corporations should be in- 
spected by a committee of five, consisting 
of two labor men, two manufacturers and 
a fifth man to be selected by these four, to 
verify the assertions of losses. The textile 
council approved this, with the addition that 
the reduction notices be taken down and the 
help allowed to return at the old scale pend- 
ing a settlement. This was refused by the 
manufacturers, and the matter dropped. 
At a conference December 4 the labor lead- 
err, proposed a reduction of GV* per cent, 
for three months, when another conference 
was to be held. The manufacturers refused, 
and on December 30 the unions voted on the 
continuance of the strike. Little change 
in the sentiment was shown from July. 

The mills were opened November 14 and 
ran with varying success till the strike was 
declared off in January. The entire strug- 
gle was marked by notable good order. 

A strike had been averted March IV, 1902, 
after all the unions had voted to go out. 
only by the granting of the advance asked, 
to take effect May 7. 

The prices paid for weaving, on which the 
wpsos of all operatives are based, have been 
change<l In recent years on the following 
dates: February 4. 1S,S4, IS.'iO cents; Janu- 



ary IS, ISSo, 10.50; March 1, 1886, 18.5(f 
February 13, 18SS, 19; July 1, 1892, 19.6; De- 
cember .5, 1892, 21; September 11, 1S93, IS; 
August 30. 1894, IC; April 22, 1895. 18; 
January 1, 1898. 10; February 27. 1899, 18; 
December 11. 1899, 19.80; May 7. 1 
21.7S; November 23, 1903. 19.80; July 25. 
1904, 17.33; October 23. 1905. 18, and a 
dividend based on the margin; July 2. 19oG. 
19.80. 

The profit sharing system went into effect 
October 23, 1905, after a conference of man- 
ufacturers and labor secretaries. It was 
based on an amended form of what was a 
fair margin for manufacturers reported by 
Gov. Douglas after an investigation follow- 
ing the strike in 1904. It was announced 
following the request of the operatives for 
higher wages, and after granting an in- 
crease to a basis of 18 cents a cut for weav- 
ing allowed for a weekly dividend to the 
help of one per cent on their wages for 
every cent of margin over 72% cents until 
the margin reached 85, when one-half of 
one per cent, was given for every cent of 
increase. The margin was figured daily on 
the difference between New York quotations 
for 8 pounds of middling upland cotton and 
the average selling price of 45 yards 28-inch 
G4xG4s and 33.11 yards 3S%-inch C4xC4s. No 
change was to be made in the minimum be- 
fore October 1. 1906. The dividends paid 
ranged from zero to ten per cent. It was 
abandoned on the advance granted July 2. 
1906. 

The Mule Spinners' Association has for 
many years been a conservative and power- 
ful organization, numbering in its ranks 
every spinner in the city and possessed of 
finances that have allowed it to care for its 
members through thick and thin. It was 
established in January, 1858. chiefly by men 
who had come here from Lancashire, Eng- 
land, where they had seen the benefits of 
united effort. Patrick Carroll was its first 
president and John McKeowen secretary. It 
at once began an agitation for more wages, 
one-third of which was granted and the re- 
mainder obtained prior to the outbreak of 
the Civil War. During that conflict most 
of its members shouldered the musket, and 
the books, which had been closed in 1861. 
were not re-opened until 1866. In 1870 they 
asked for an advance of 10 per cent in 
wages. The manufacturers offered to com- 
promise on five per cent., hut this was 
refused, and a nine weeks' struggle followe<l. 
ending In defeat for the spinners. This was 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



a severe blow, as hours of labor were in- 
creased, wages reduced and the backbone 
of the union broken. Their efforts were 
men devoted to securing the passage of the 
ten-hour law, which they saw put on the 
statute books in 1874. In February, 1S75, 
three and then six mills were struck for an 
advance in wages, leading to negotiations 
with the manufacturers and the resump- 
tion of work on the promise of an advance 
April 1. An agitation for weekly instead 
of monthly payments was also begun. 

What is known as "The Great Vacation" 
commenced August 1, 1875, following an an- 
nouncement of a reduction in wages. The 
operatives, believing a curtailment was a 
better remedy for the situation, determined 
to take a month's vacation. At the end 
of that period the mills gave them another 
month, and on the ninth week the help were 
obliged to submit and to sign a document, 
promising, among other things, not to be- 
long to any trade associations in the future. 
All the other labor organizations but the 
spinners went to pieces. Three more re- 
ductions in wages and a disastrous strike 
at the Granite mills led to desertions, and 
it was only by the most strenuous efforts 
that the union, the only organization of 
textile workers in New England at the 
lime, was kept alive. In June, 187S. Robert 
Howard was elected secretary, and the as- 
sociation soon began to increase in member- 
ship and funds. 

Early in 1879 conditions of business had 
so improve<l that a restoration of part of 
the wages lost was asked, but refused, and 
after fruitless negotiations a strike was or- 
dered June 15, which continued until Octo- 
ber 2G, with considerable bitterness. It 
was lost for want of money to carry it on. 
In January, 1880, an increase was given, 
and the agitation for weekly payments car- 
ried on with the result that by April. 19 
of the 53 mills made the desired change. In 
1885, through the efforts of Mr. Howard, a 
GO-hour law passed the Legislature and went 
into effect January 1. 188G. In 1884 had 
occurred the ten-mills strike against a re- 
duction, which, after 18 weeks, ended in de- 
feat, and in 18SG the spinners were formally 
recognized by the manufacturers. 

The organization reached its largest 
membership in 1885. with a total of 750. 
which has since fallen to about 400, owing 
to the substitution of frame for mule spin- 
ning in many mills. Secretary Howard, who 
had been elected a member of the Legisla- 



ture in 1880, was elected to the Senate in 
1885 and served consecutively until 1893. 
He resigned his position with the union in 
1897, and was succeeded in July of that 
year by Thomas O'Donnell, the present sec- 
retary, who had been treasurer since 1885. 
The present weavers' union, tormed Feb- 
ruary 27, 1'888, is the successor of various 
organizations of weavers more or less short 
lived. Its name was at first the Weavers' 
Protective Association and was changed to 
the Weavers' Progressive Association when 
it was united with the Amalgamated Asso- 
ciation in 1889. The first hall was in the 
Pocasset block, and it occupied various 
quarters till the completion of its hand- 
some building on Second street, erected in 
1904. This is a four-story structure, cost- 
ing $47,000, with stores on the first floor 
and offices and halls above, the larger with 
a seating capacity of 839. Patrick J. Con- 
nelly, the first secretary, served until April, 
1891, when he was succeeded by James 
Whitehead, the present secretary, who had 
formerly been treasurer and president. Wil- 
liam Granton is now president, and John T. 
Riley treasurer. The union has a member- 
ship of more than 3,000. 

About thirty-flve years ago Fall River had 
two or three families of Jews, who came 
here from the German-speaking ixirtions of 
Europe. About thirty years ago there were 
two or three families of Russian and Polish 
Jews. In 1880 the number increased to 
about a dozen families. Not until 1891 did 
the numbers increase to any extent. 

That year the terrible persecutions by the 
Russian government drove the Jews to emi- 
grate to all parts of the world. Many of 
them found their way here. From that day 
to this there has been a gradual increase 
in the Jewish population of Fall River, so 
that to-day they number about 3.000. 

They are settled in groui>s. Most of them 
are found in the centre of the city. There is 
a large number of the Jews in the eastern 
portion of the city, large enough to main- 
tain a sjTiagogue for themselves. 

All told there are three synagogues owned 
by the congre.gations — one on Pearl street, 
one on Union street ami one on Quarry 
street. 

The majority of the Jews are engaged in 
business on their own account, as hawkers 
or storekeepers. Several of them own 
stores of considerable size. The rest of the 
population are clerks or mill workers. Those 



142 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



occupied in the mills are by no means con- 
tent, and the first opportunity they get 
tncy go into business. 

There arc no wealthy Jews in Fall River. 
.\ few are well fixed. More are moderately 
well off, but the biggest portion of them 
are not far removed from a hand-to-mouth 
existence. There is only a very inconsid- 



erable number that cannot take care of 
themselves, and these are provided for by 
the two Jewish women's societies that have 
existed for several years. 

Besides these societies there are twelve 
lodges, and the Beaconsfield Club (recently 
organized), which are ready to alleviate the 
sufferings of their people. 




CHAPTER XVII 



STATISTICS 



City Officers from 1854 to 1906 



Departments. 

Assessing Department, General Expenses... 

Assessing department, salaries and clerical 
assistance 

Auditing department, general expenses 

Auditing department, salaries and clerical 
assistance 

Burials, indigent soldiers and sailors 

Care of trees in public ways 

City Clerk depailment, general expenses... 

City Clerk department, salaries and clerical 
assistance 

City debt 

City Hall, general expenses 

City Hall, salaries 

City officers 

Collecting Department, general expenses... 

Collecting Department, salaries and clerical 
assistance 

Collection of garbage 

Contingent . .■ 

Elections 

En.gineering Department, general expenses. 

Engineering Department, salaries and cleri- 
cal assistance 

Evening schools 

Fire alarm 

Fire Department, current expenses 

Fire Department, hose 

Fire Department, salaries 

Firemen's Memorial Day 

Fuel, school houses 

Health, agents, etc 

Health, current expenses 

Health, current expenses, unpaid bills, 190."). 

Highways 

Highways, granolithic sidewalks 

Interest 

.lanitors, school houses 

Law Department 

Mayor's Department 

Memorial Day 

Military aid 



>NS FOR 1906. 








Estimated Estimated 




Direct 


Depl. 


General 




Taxation. 


Revenue. 


Revenue. 


Total. 


1,600.00 






1,600.00 


9,400.00 






9,400.00 


1,150.00 






1,150.01) 


4,200.00 






4.200.00 


35.00 


315.00 




350.00 


400.00 






400.00 


2,850.00 






2,850.00 


G,074.00 






6,674.00 


18,500.00 






18,500.00 


10,000.00 




1,000.00 


11,000.00 


4,980.00 






4,980.00 


14,000.00 




5,725.00 


19,725.00 


1,800.00 






1,800.00 


4,500.00 






4,500.00 


12,000.00 






12.000.00 


3,042.80 




6,394.92 


10,037.72 


3.000.00 




1,500.00 


4.500.00 


1,700.00 






1,700.00 


9,000.00 






9,000.00 


12,000.00 




1,000.00 


13.000.00 


3,800.00 






3,800.00 


21,500.00 


500.00 




22,000.00 


1,500.00 






1 .500,00 


113,500.00 




4.000.00 


117,500.00 


150.00 






150.00 


13,000.00 




5,000.00 


18,000.00 


4.979.00 






4,979.00 


2,500.00 


500.00 




3,000.00 


3,714.45 






3,714.45 


G7.500.00 


12.500.00 




80.000.00 




2,500.00 




2,500.00 


176,000.00 






176,000.00 


40,000.00 






40.000.00 


2,.500.00 






2,500.00 


150.00 




150.00 


300.00 


400.00 




300.00 


700.00 


244.00 


256.00 




500.00 



Hi 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Estimated Estimated 



Departments. 

New trees in public ways 

North burial ground 

Oak Grove Cemetery 

Oak Grove Cemetery, retaining wall 

Pauper 

Police 

Public Library • 

Public parks, maintenance 

Public parks, salaries 

Public schools, general expenses 

Public schools, salaries 

Relief of soldiers and sailors 

Repairs on public buil:iings 

Repairs on public buildings, insurance on 

boilers 

Rifle range 

Sinking fund, city debt 

Sinking fund, water debt 

Street awards (Jones street) 

Street lights 

Street lights, Installation of Boulevard gas 

lami>s 

Textile school 

Treasury Department, general expenses. . . . 
Treasury Department, salaries and clerical 

a.ssistance 

Wahipiia i)ayiiient account 



Direct 


Dept. 


General 




Taxation. 


Revenue. 


Revenue. 


Total. 


100.00 






100.00 


3,600.00 


1,400.00 




5,000.00 


5,000.00 


13,000.00 




18,000.00 


2,000.00 






2,000.00 


4L000.00 


8,000.00 


51,000.00 


100,000.00 


70,000.00 


8,500.00 


63,500.00 


148.000.00 


15,569.92 




5,430.08 


21,000.00 


5,000.00 






5,000.00 


10,000.00 






10,000.00 


13,500.00 


6,500.00 


1,000.00 


21,000.00 


196,000.00 




50.000.00 


246,000.00 


9,000.00 




4,000.00 


13,000.00 


26,000.00 


1,500.00 




27,500.00 


300.00 






300.00 


500.00 






500.00 


208,745.83 






20S.745.S3 


37,835.00 






37,835.00 


2,500.00 






2,500.00 


99,450.00 


50.00 




99,500.00 


3,000.00 






3.000.00 


5,000.00 






5,000.00 


600.0(1 






600.00 


4,400.00 






4,400.00 


7.000.00 






7,000.00 



1.344,970.00 55,521.00 200,000.00 1,600.49L00 



Provided for by loans: Highways, $100,000.00; highways, curbing. $25,000.00; high- 
ways, granolithic sidewalks. $5,000.00; paving, $25,000.00; street awards (Pocasset 
street), $5,000.00; sewers, construction, $60,000.00. 



VOTES FOR MAYOR. 



Below are given the votes for .Mayor at 
lion of tile cily in 1S54 lo 1904. The first 
since 1S60 they have occurred in December: 

1X54 .lames Bufllnton 796 

li'osler H. Hooper 3S7 

1855 .James Bufflnlon 757 

1856 lOdward P. Bultinton 570 

Nathaniel B. Borden 82 

1857 Nathaniel B. Borden 650 

lOdwaril P. Bufflnton 532 

185S .Io.siah C. Blaisdell 688 

Nathaniel B. Borden 580 

1 S59 .losiah C. Blaisdell .. .' 702 

Recount 942 

Chester W. Greene 698 

Recount 802 

1860 (March) 

lOdwartl P. Bwlllnloii. no opposi- 
tion. 



I he municil)al ileclions from I he incorpofa- 

seven elections were luld in March, bul 

1800 (December) 

Edward P. Bufflnton 1033 

Walter C. Durfee 43S 

1861 Edward P. Bufllnton 501 

1862 Edward P. Bullinton Iii03 

Leander Borden 683 

1563 Edward P. Bufflnton 967 

Elihu Grant 554 

1564 Edward P. Bufflnton 797 

Chester W. Greene 773 

1865 Edward P. Bufflnton 1209 

S. Angier Chace 1177 

1S66 George O. Fairbanks 10!»6 

Robert Adams 626 

ISC" George O. Fairbanks 1175 

Chester W. Greene 1136 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



145 



1868 Samuel M. Brown 12G4 

Southard H. Miller 103G 

18G9 Samuel il. Brown 1487 

Edward P. Buffinton SGG 

1870 Samuel M. Brown 1375 

Abraham G. Hart 801 

1871 Samuel M. Brown 1381 

Isaac Smith, Jr 588 

1872 Robert T. Davis l'J92 

1873 James F. Davenport 1838 

John S. Brayton 1313 

1874 James F. Daveniwrt 2213 

Louis Lapham 1588 

1875 James F. Davenport 1952 

Louis Lapham 1666 

187G James F. Davenport 2217 

Louis Lapham 1988 

1877 Crawford K. Lindsey 2632 

j^ouis Lapham 2356 

1878 Crawford E. Lindsey 4247 

Louis Lapham 227 

1879 William S. Greene 2990 

Jeremiah R. Leary 2481 

1880 William S. Greene 3459 

1881 Henry K. Braley 3043 

Milton Reed 2395 

1882 Henry K. Braley 3188 

Milton Reed 2747 

1883 Milton Reed 5377 

Michael Tootle 3123 

1884 John W. Cummings 3440 

Henry J. Langley 3340 

1885 William S. Greene 3721 

John W. Cummings 3554 

ISSG John W. Cummings 3825 

William S. Greene 3564 



1887 John W. Cummings 4535 

William S. Grene 4339 

1888 James F. Jackson 4441 

John W. Coughlin 4079 

1889 James F. Jackson 4172 

John W. Coughlin 4071 

1890 John W. Coughlin , 4563 

William J. Wiley 3755 

1891 John W. Coughlin 4760 

John H. Abbott 3842 

.892. john W. Coughlin 5550 

Philip H. Borden 4678 

1891 John W. Coughlin 47C0 

William S. Greene 5581 

1894 William S. Greene 5075 

Augustus P. Gorman 4276 

J. Dwiglit Brady 1284 

1895 William S. Greene 5271 

Cornelius C. Murphy, Jr...N 3839 

] 896 William S. Greene 6794 

William E. Quirk 3673 

1 897 Amos M. Jackson 6199 

James Hoar 5630 

1S9S Amos M. Jackson 5667 

John S. B. Clarke 5595 

1899 John H. Abbott 6100 

John S. B. Clarke 5782 

1900 John H. Abbott 6414 

James E. Holland 5656 

1901 George Grime 7460 

Michael B. Jones 2407 

1902 George Grime 6735 

Michael Sweeney 5888 

1904 John T. Coughlin 5764 

George Grime 5007 



Year. 

1854 
1855 
1860 
1865 
1870 
1872 
1873 
1874 
1875 
1876 
1877 
1878 
1879 
1880 
1881 
1882 
1183 
1884 
1885 



Valuation. 
$8,939,215 
9,708,420 
11,522,050 
12,134.990 
26,612,214 
37.841,294 
47,416.246 
50,019.572 
51.401,407 
48,92(1. 4S.-) 
45,05N,127 
40,936,556 
37,001.790 
37.700,495 
39,650,701 
41,900,475 
44.073,662 
44,286,677 
43,820,005 



VALUATION. 
Ta.\ Rale. 
$5.80 
5.00 
7.40 
10.50 
15.30 
12.00 
13.00 
12.80 
14..50 
1 5.20 
15.50 
17.50 
18.00 
18.00 
19.00 
18.80 
18.40 
18.80 
18.80 



TAX RAT 
Total Tax. 
$50,523.70 
59,425.15 
90,124.01 
209,2721.20 
374,753.22 
454,095.53 
616,411.20 
640,250.53 
745,321.27 
743,591.37 
707,700.97 
716.389.73 
666,032.22 
678.716.91 
753,364.46 
787.728.93 
810.955.38 
832.589.52 
823,816.09 



E AND 

ISSG 
1887 
1888 
1889 
1890 
1891 
1892 
1893 
1894 
1895 
1890 
1897 
1898 
1899 
1900 
1901 
1902 
1903 
1904 
1905 



TOTAL 
43,757,065 
44,231,141 
46,504,585 
49,841,691 
53,473,183 
54,281,930 
56,065,920 
60,534,005 
63,638,563 
65,238,178 
69,286,496 
71,292,363 
70,941,286 
71,642,320 
73,511,614 
74,554,380 
75.394,297 
77.575.601 
80,998.349 
81.754,247 



TAX. 

18.80 
18.40 
17.40 
17,80 
10.40 
17.20 
17.40 
17.40 
16.80 
17.20 
17.00 
17.20 
17.80 
17.80 
18.20 
18.20 
18.20 
18.60 
18.60 
18.80 



822,632.82 

813,852.99 

809,179.78 

887,182.10 

876,960.20 

933,649.19 

975,547.00 

1,053,291.69 

1,069,127.80 

1,122,096.66 

1,177,870.43 

1,226,228.65 

1,262,754.89 

1,275,233.30 

1.337.911.37 

1.356,889.72 

1.372,176.21 

1,442,907.29 

1,506,569.29 

1,593,523.81 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 
STATEMENT SHOWING THE NET DEBT. 



From February 1, 


1870, to January 1, 1906. 


18^6 


1,176,018.24 


1,570,123.48 


2,752,141.72 


Feb. 1 








1887 


1,087,553.47 


1,549,328.88 


2,036,882.35 




Municipal 






1S8S 


1,031.280.36 


1,519,491.89 


2,550,772.25 


Year. 


De'-t. 


Water Debt. 


Total. 


1S89 


909,742.52 


1,507,563.28 


2,477,305.80 


1870 






$338,589.42 


1890 


959,093.38 


1,490,854.10 


2,450,547.48 


1871 






300,328.77 


1891 


1,115,796.04 


1,476,897.70 


2.592.093.74 


1872 






387,784.71 


1892 


1,070,228.05 


1,455,848.75 


2,520,077.40 


1873 


$557,895.01 


$300,000.00 


857,895.01 


1893 


1,377,736.75 


1,422,757.10 


2,800.493.85 


1S7-1 


978,211.44 


505,000.00 


1,483,211.44 


1894 


1,501,818.90 


1,464,097.48 


2.965,916.44 


.Jan. 1 








1S95 


1,543,761.25 


1,447,323.52 


2,991,084.77 


1875 


1,434,478.58 


950,247.23 


2,384,725.81 


1896 


1,734,768.91 


1,465,130.93 


3.199,899.84 


1876 


1,518,031.14 


1,445,232.33 


2,963,203.47 


1897 


1,894,177.88 


1,443,413.88 


3,337,591.76 


1877 


1,479,095.44 


1,639,862.33 


3,118,957.77 


1898 


2,105,970.12 


1.421,252.55 


3,527,222.07 


1878 


1,570,070.32 


1.564,768.72 


3,140,839.04 


1899 


2,219,373.46 


1,400,408.30 


3,019,781.76 


1879 


1,549,912.78 


1,620,881.53 


3,170,794.31 


1900 


2,317,402.74 


1,371.031.44 


3.688.434.18 


ISSO 


1,487,611.08 


1,657,963.32 


3,145,574.40 


1901 


2.374,781.94 


1,338,352.22 


3.713,134.16 


.881 


1,4.06,311.68 


1,648,475.35 


3,084,787.03 


1902 


2.414,915.38 


1,304,351.80 


3.719,207.24 


1882 


1,363,427.53 


1,632,226.45 


2,995,653.98 


1903 


2,500,545.38 


1.359,308.33 


3,859.853.71 


1883 


1,287,896.42 


1,622,265.25 


2,910.161.67 


1904 


2,512,774.33 


1,311,330.71 


3.824,105.04 


1884 


1.241,177.28 


1,010,575.81 


2.S51. 753.09 


1905 


2.S19,329..58 


1,132,308.55 


3.951.098.13 


1885 


1,161,307.47 


1,593,505,49 


2,754,872.96 


1900 


2.812,304.21 


1,001,455.58 


3.873,759.79 



POPULATION. 

Year. Year. Yiar. Year. 

1810 1.290 1873 38,464 18S5 50.803 1897 101.106 

1820 1,594 1874 43,289 1886 59,021 189S 97,517 

1830 4,159 1875 45,160 1887 63,961 1899 102,281 

1840 6,738 1876 44,356 1888 63,715 1900 104,863 

1845 10,290 1877 45,113 1889 68.774 1901 107,831 

1850 11.170 1878 48.491 1890 74,918 1902 108.728 

1855 12.080 1879 46,909 1891 77,329 1903 113,602 

1800 13,240 1880 47,883 1892 83,020 1904 113,645 

1865 17,525 1881 49,049 1893 87,773 19u5 106.620 

1870 27,191 1882 50,487 1894 89.576 1906 107,903 

1871 28.291 1883 52,558 1895 89,203 

1872 34,835 1884 54,001 1896 97,318 *Estimate(l. 



CITY OFFICERS 

FRO.M l.S.Jl to 1900. 

.\I.\YORS. Cummings. .John \V 1SS5, 1887-88 

Daveni)ort, James F 1874-77 

.\l>b()ll, John H 1900-01 L'avis, Robert T 1873 

Itlaisdell, .losiah C 1858-59 f airbanks. George O 1867-68 

Uonlen. Nathaniel B 1857 Greene, William S 1880-81. 1886. 1S95-97 

liraley. Henry K 1882-83 (Jrime, George 1902-04 

Itrown, Samuel M 1809-72 Henry, Robert 1881 

Hullluton. ICdward P 1855-56. 1860-66 Jackson. Amos M 1898-99 

IJulIinlou. .lames 1854-55 Jackson, James F 1889-90 

Coughlln, John T 1905-06 Lir.dsey, Crawford IC 1878-79 

Coughlin, John W 1891-91 Reed. Milton 1884 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



J47 



PRESIDENTS OF THE }30ARD OF 
ALDERMEN. 

Abbott, John H 1897 

Bassett, Rufus \V 1891 

92— HISTORY OF FALL RIVER ! ! ! 

Beattie, John, Jr 1892-94 

Boomer, Charles H 1890 

Borden, Philip H 1878 

Brown, Charles E 1901-02 

Lote. Edmund 1900 

Davenport, James F 1880-81 

Eddy, Thomas F 1882-83 

Hartley, Alfred H 1898 

Holmes, Charles J 1889 

Langley, Henry J 1884 

Lawson, Frederick \V 1903-04 

McCreery, Joseph 1879 

Sinclair, James 1905-06 

Westall, John 1899 

Wiley, George T 1895-96 

Wiley, William J 1885-88 

ALDERMEN. 

Abbe, Alanson J 1903-00 

Abbott, John H 1896-97 

Adams. Robert 1857 

Albert, James B 1880-81, 1884, 1S9S 

Almy, Frank S 1905-06 

Andrew, John 1891 

Ashley, Job B 1861-62 

Bagshaw, James T 1903-06 

Baker, Charles E 1897-98 

Ballard, Al van S 1854 

Bannister. Wilson 1889 

Bannister, Wilson E 1900-04 

Barker, Warren S 1 891-93, 1899 

Barlow. .lames 1890 

Barrett, Edward 1876 

Bas.selt. Rufus W 1890-91 

Beattie. John, Jr 1879, 1892-94 

Blaisdell. John G 1894 

Boomer. Charles H 1889-90 

Booth, William 1906 

Borden, Cook 1865 

Borden. Joseph 1862-63 

BoriU-n. Leander 1866 

Bimlcn, Major 1855 

Borden. Nathaniel B., Sr 1859-65 

Borden. Philip D 1864-65 

Borden. Philip H 1875, 1878-79 

Borden, Simeon 1866-73 

Borden, Thomas S 1882-83 

Bowen, Joseph A 1870-71 

Brady, .1. Dwight 1892-93 

Brayton, David A 1856 

Bmwn, Charles E 1901-02 

Buckley, Isaac 1890 



Buffinton, Edward P 1854-55 

Bufflnton, John E 1880-81 

Burgess, William L 1903-05 

Byrne, Michael 1S92-9G, 1898 

Campbell, John 1871-75 

Carr, William 1857 

Chace, Augustus 1875 

Champney, Julius B 1854 

Christmas, Charles 186G-G7 

Connell, William, Jr 18G8 

Connelly, John A 1879-80 

Conroy, Daniel 1869 

Cook, William M 1855-56 

Cote, Edmund 1898-lBOO 

Covel, Benjamin 1863 

Coyle, John E 186S 

Creigh, .lohn B 1900 

CTOWther, John 1893 

Cummings, John W 1882 

Cunneen, .lames E 1870-72 

Cuttle, John 1870 

Daley, John 1890-91 

Darling, .loseph M., Jr 1899-1901 

Davenport. James F 1871-73, 1880-81 

Da vol, Bradford D 1875-77 

Doherty, Thomas E 1887-88 

Draper, Orlando 1903-04, 1905-06 

Durfce, George T 1886-88 

Durfee, Holder B 1876-77 

Durfee, Randall N 1895 

Durfee, Walter C 1858-59, 1868-69 

Durfee, William B 1860 

Durfee, William N 1889 

Earl, Benjamin 1859 

Earl, Henry H 1886 

Eddy, George H 1861, 1878 

Eddy, Thomas F 1873, 1882-83 

Everett, Nathan B _. 1887, 1894 

Featherston. .lohn 1894 

Fennelly, .lohn H 1890-91 

Finnegan, John 1889-91 

Finnegan, Thomas F 1895 

Fisher, Charles E 1895-96 

Flynn, William J 1893 

Foley, Patrick E 1881 

Ford. .Tames 1856, 1861-62 

Foukl.s. .lohn E 1885-86, 1889 

Foulds. Reginald A 1901-02 

Francis, James R 1878 

Gagnon, Frederick J 1903-05 

Garvey, Dennis 1883-85 

Giblin, Edward M 1897-98 

Gibney, Thomas E 1895-97 

Gifford, Ellis 1858 

Hanson, Julian 1906 

Harrington, Edward F 1903-06 

Harrington, Frank 1897 

Hart, Isaac L 1855 



)48 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Hartley, Alfred H 1897-98 

Hathaway. Guilford H 18GC-G7 

Hathaway, Oliver H 1854-55 

Hathaway, Richmond B., Jr 1897 

Hathaway, Samuel 18C3 

Hathaway, Nicholas 1874 

Haughwout, Velona \V 1884, 188C 

Healy, Joseph 1894-95 

Henry, James 1854-57, 1S59 GO, 1865-GC 

Hill, William 1858 

Holden, Andrew 1891-190U 

Holland, James E 1899-1900 

Holmes, Charles J 1885, 1888-89 

Hurley, John T I8S0-8G 

Hurley, William J 1881, 1883-84 

Johnson, George F 1900, 1903-00 

Johnston, John F 189G-97 

Kay, James H 1906 

Keefe, William F 1898-99 

Kelley, Michael J 1886 

Kelly, Cornelius 1904-06 

Kelly, Samuel J 1903-05 

Kendall, Frederick 1899-1900, 1904-05 

Kenney, John T 1906 

King, John F 1882 

Langley, Henry J 1881-84 

Lannigan, John S. H 1903-06 

Lavoie. Charles 1906 

Lawson, Frederick W 1903-04 

Leary, Dennis F 1903 

Leary, Jeremiah R 1873-74 

Leary, Quinlan 1877 

Leonard, John M 1879-80 

Lindsey. Crawford E 1871-72 

Ling, William B 1898-1906 

Lockhart, Alexander 1891-92 

Lomax, William 1903-06 

Luby. Patrick B. ., 1895-97 

Lunney, Patrick J 1877-80 

Luscomb, Andrew 1873-74 

Lulher. Ebene/.er 1859 

Macfarlane, John A 1875-77 

Macomber, Pardon 1870-72 

Malone, L. Frank 1901-05 

Manley, Robert L 1903-06 

Mason, .lohn, Jr 1861-G2 

Mason, William, 2r 1857 

Maynard, Paul H 1901-02 

McCreery, Joseph 1874, 1879 

McDonough, Anthony 1SS5 

McKevItt, Hugh 1882 

McLauchlen, John R 1892 

Miller. Southard H 1857, 187.S 

Mills. Charles E 18S2 

Mlino, James T 1S74 

Moore, Fred igO.'i-OC. 

Mulvaney, John 1899-19iil 

Murphy, Cornelius C, Jr 1893 



Murphy, Edward F 1884 

Murphy, James 1892 

Nadeau, John B 1903 

Nason, Elias C 1867-69 

Neill, Joseph O 1877-78 

Nightingale, John 1896-97 

Niles, Ephraim C 1904-05 

Nugent, Michael J 1903 

O'Regan, Joseph 1901-00 

Osborn, James M 1856, 1858 

Osborn, Weaver 1864,1867 

Paine, Walter, 3d 1863-65 

Parks, Joseph A 1903 

Patenaude, Francis H 1903-05 

Petty, Asa, Jr 1860-G2 

Pouliot, Leonidas 1903-06 

Powers, James 1884 

Reed, John M 1886-88 

Remington, Joshua 1857-58, 1864-65 

Riley, Frank 1902 

Shaw, Edwin 1854-55 

Shea, John 1 1906 

Shove, Charles 1858-60, 1863 

Sinclair, James 1903-06 

Slade, John P 1856-57, 1860 

Smith, George 1903-00 

Smithies, Robert 18G9-70 

Southworth. John 1883 

Splaiue. Thomas F 1894 

St. George. Archibald 1906 

Stillwell. Daniel 1804-65 

Sullivan. Cornelius 1887-90 

Sullivan. Daniel R 1875-70 

Sullivan. Eugene E. 1900 

Sullivan. James .) 1903-06 

Sullivan. Michael F 1889 

Sullivan. Patrick R 187C 

Sweeney, Michael 1885-88 

Thomas, William F 1884-85 

Thorpe. Vincent 1883 

Tootle, Michael 1882 

Turner, Joseph 1903-00 

Turner. William 1904-05 

Wadington. Samuel 1860-69 

Walters, Joseph 1882 

Wells, .r. Henry 1887-88 

Westall. John 1S98-99 

Westell. William 1904-06 

Wiley. George T 1893-90 

Wiley. William J 1882-88 

Winslow, Henry S 1903 

WInslow. Smith 1850 

Wood. Jonathan M 1887-89 

PRESIDENTS OF THE COMMON 
COUNCIL. 

HoKlin, Nathaniel B 1890-91 

Uorden. Sinuon 1861 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



J49 



Borden, Thomas J 1875 

Brown, Robert C 1S54-55 

Brown, Samuel M ISGO, 18G4 

Buffinton, Charles C 1887-88 

Chace, Isaac B 180:5, 1872-73 

Clarke, John S. B 1 S9G 

Connell, William, Jr 1867 

Davenport. James F 1871 

Da vol, Abner P 1892-93 

Durfee, Randall N 1894 

Karl. Benjamin 1858 

Karl, Henry H ^ 1882-84 

Eddy, George H 1S57 

Fairbanks. George O 18G2 

Gardner, Stephen B 18G8-G9 

Greene, William S 1877-79 

Hargraves, James 1895 

Hart. Abraham G 18G6 

Hawes, William M . . .■ 1880 

Henrj-, James W 1889 

Hopewell. William 1898 

Jackson. Amos M 1897 

Jennings, William H 1859 

Lawson. Frederick W 1900 

Lindsey, Craw^ford E 1870, 1874 

McGra w, Frank 1881 

Potter, Thomas T 1865 

Remington, Clinton V. S 1876 

Riley, Frank 1902 

Rounseville, Cyrus C 1885 

Thompson, Edward F 1899 

Tinkhani. John G 1886 

Waiters, Frank M 1901 

Wrightington, Stephen C 1856 

COUNCILAIEN. 

Adams, Edward S 1882-84 

Adams, Henry A 1895-97 

Adams, Isaac L 1898 

Adams, Robert 18G1-G3 

Adams, Thomas. Jr 1890-91 

Albert. Charles H 1883, 188G 

Albert. James B 1879 

Allen. George S 18G2 

Allen. Howard B 1854-55, lSGl-62 

Allen. Louis V 1894 

All wood. Arthur 1885 

Almy, Franklin L 18G7-GS 

Almy, Frank S 1901-02 

Almy, Langworthy 1859 

Almy, William M 1854 

Amiot, George J. B 1902 

Amiot, Joseph E 1895 

Andrew, .lohn 1889-90 

.Anthony. James S 1857 

Arcand. George E 1885-8C 

Ashley. Job B 1855-5G. 1865 



Baggett. Edward P 1877-78 

Bagshaw, Henry 1S73, 187G 

Bagshaw. James 1881 

Baker, Charles E 189G-97 

Baker, Ransom P 18C5 

Bannister, Wilson 1SS7-88 

Bannister, Wilson E " 1S99 

Barker, Warren S 1890 

Barlow, James 1886-87 

Barlow. John ]SS4 

Bassett, Rufus W 1887, 1889 

Beattie, David 1 889 

Bennett, Austin F 1902 

Bennett, William G 1860-03 

Bennett, William N 1891 

Benson, Luther J 1897-1900 

Biltcliffe, William 1889, 189i 

Blackwell, James 1896 

Blaisdell, John G 1883. 1890-91 

Bolton, Richard R 1897 

Bonney, Nathaniel 1854 

Boomer, Charles H 1883, 1885 

Borden, Alexander 1863 

Borden, Arthur R 1872-73 

Borden, Bernice C 1864 

Borden, Cook 1878 

Borden, Edward P 1861-63 

Borden, Frank 1881-82, 1884, 1887-90 

Borden. Fred C 1897-1902 

Borden, George A 1802 

Borden, Joseph 1850-57 

Borden, Leander 1805 

Borden, Major 1 857 

Borden, Nathaniel B : 1890-91 

Borden, Philip H 1872-74 

Borden, Richard B 1858-59, 18G4 

Borden, Simeon 1800-01 

Borden, Stephen B 1800 

Borden, Thomas J 1874-75 

Borden, Thomas S 1879-81 

Borden. Walter F 1895-90 

Borden. William 1857 

Bosworth, George H 1855 

Bottoms, Samuel 1892 

Bourbonnier, Joseph 1889-90 

Bowen, George N 187C, 1 878-79 

Bowen, Joseph A 1805-06 

Bowen, Joseph H 1897-98 

Bowers, Joseph 1878 

Brackett, William H 1857 

Brady, Daniel 1873 

Brady, .L Dwight 1890 

Brady, Joseph 1894 

Brayton. David A 1855 

Brayton, David A.. Jr 1S84-S5 

Brayton. William B 1804-05 

Brennan. Edward 1885 

Brennan. .Tames H 1.S91-92 



150 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Urennan, Michael W 1864, 18GG 

Briggs, John 1881-82 

Briggs, Zephaniah T 1859 

Brigham, D. Sewall 1854, 18G8 

Brightman, Corey D .1803 

Rrighlman, Perez O 1858, 18C0 

Brightnian, Sheffield 1854, 1856, 1872 

MrU.and, Btiward 1893-94 

Brooks, Roger 1890-91 

Brooks, William J 1889, 1891-92 

Brown, Charles K 1883-84, 1890-91 

Brown, David F 1809-70 

Brown, James 1891 

Brown, Robert C 1854-55 

Brown, Samuel M 1858-00, 18C4 

Brownell, Warren 1807 

Bryans, John M 1875 

Buckley, Isaac 1889 

Bufflnton, Charles C 1882, 1887-88 

Buffinton, Elisha W 1890 

Bufflnton, John E 1878-79 

Buroh, Thomas 1858 

Burgess, John H 1884 

Burgess, William 1877 

Burgess, William J 1884 

Burgess, William L 1901-02 

Burke, Michael I) 1887 

Buron, Joseph H 1897 

Burr. Frank W 1878-79 

Eurrcll, John T 1S85-8G 

Butler, Patrick E 1878 

Byrne, Michael ' 1889-90 

Byron, Walter E 1890-91 

Campbell, Phelps B 1800 

Campbell, Sylvester 1882 

Carey, John W 1893 

Carman. William A 1884-85 

Carroll, John H 1882 

Case, Charles E 1800-07. 1870-71 

Cate. George W 1898 

Chace, Augustus 1805 

Chace, Benjamin C 1901-02 

Chace, Frank M 1899-1900 

Chace, Isaac B 1857, 1800, 1803, 1872-73 

Chace, Obadiah 1854-55 

Chace, Robert 1 1866 

Chace, William 1858 

Chace. William H 1877 

Chagnon. John I! 1884 

Chase. Clark 1879, 1886 

Chase. Simeon B 1877-78 

Oheetham. William B 1868 

Clark. Barnabas 1857 

Clark, Thomas 1901 

Clarke. John S. B 1892-96 

Clarkson. Alfred 1896 

Clarkson. George J 1870, 1872 

Clarltson, John 1859 



Clifton, Joseph 1879, 1884, 1886 

Connell, William, Jr 1860-67 

Connelly, James ll 1892-93 

Connelly, John 1855-58 

Connelly, John A 1 877-78, 1890 

Connelly, Michael li 1883-85 

Conroy, Daniel 1865-60, 1875 

Cook, Algernon M ISGl 

Cook, Vernon 1855, 1859 

Cook, William H 1885-86 

Cook, William M 1885-88 

Corcoran, Edward J i 1895 

Corcoran, William D 1868 

Cort, Edward J 1893 

CosUgan, Daniel F 1899-1902 

Covel, Alphonso S 1872-73 

Covel, Benjamin.. 1858, 18G0, 1862, 1869, 1874 

Coyle. John K 1805-07 

Creigh. John B 1898-99 

Creighton, David 1880 

Crowley, Jeremiah 1893-95 

Crowley, John T 1875 

Cunneen, James E 1867 

Cunneen, John T 1901 

Cunneen, William H 1898 

Cuttle, John : ... 1809 

Darcy, Thomas. Jr 1883 

Darling, Joseph -M 1809-70, 1877 

Davenport, James F 1802, 1871 

Davenport. William 1872 

Davis. Benjamin B 1860 

Davis, Joseph M 1867 

Davis, Noah 1859-02 

Davol. Abner P 1892-93 

Da vol. Bradford D 1869-71 

Davol. James C 1889 

Davol. John. Jr 1868 

Davol. William C, Jr 1873-75 

Dean, Charles H 1866 

Dean. Gardner T 1869 

Dean, Moses 1863 

Delaney. Patrick 1885 

Delehanty. Patrick 1887-88 

Denn«n. Peter J 1854 

Desjardins, George T 1898-99 

Desmond, John 1882-83 

Destremps. T>ouis E 1900-02 

Dillon. John 1885 

Diman. Henry 1854-55. 1865-66, 1882 

Diskin, John 1887 

Doherty, Thomas E 1885-86 

Dolge. James 1899 

Donovan, John P 1898 

Donovan, Thomas J 1891 

Dowd, Thomas 1899-1901 

Doyle. Thomas L 1884 

Drlscoll, Daniel 1889-90 

Duckworth. Elijah 1899 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



151 



Duckworth, Richard lS9tJ-97 

Uudicy, Joseph 1S5S-59 

Jjunham. William K 187G 

Uuiiii, John 1887 

Dunn, John F 1872 

Dunn. Patrick 1888 

Durfee, George T 1883-8.5 

Duriee, Holder B 1870-71 

Durfee, Horatio N 1877 

Durfee. Randall N- 1892-94 

Durfee, William B 1859 

Durfee. William H 1887-88 

Dwelly, Frank H 18S2 

Dyne«. .James E 1890-91 

Dyson, Amos H 1889-91 

Barnes, Asa 1S57, iSGO-tn 

Karl, Benjamin 1858 

Barl Cibbs ISSC 

l:.arl, Henry H 1882-84 

EJarl, Lloyd S 1858 

Eddy, George H ls5C-57. 1859, 1S7G 

Eddy, Leander K 1870 

EJddy. Thomas F 1SG8-G9 

Elsbree, Joseph 1S55, 1SC1-G2 

Estes, John H 1880 

Fahey, Benjamin A 1897 

Fairbanks, George 18G2 

Fay, James A 1897 

Fennelly, William E 18S8 

Fcnner, Henry S 188G 

Finnegan, John 1888 

Ftnnegan, Thomas F 1892-91 

Fish, Henry H 18C5-G7 

Fisher, Charles F 1894 

Flanagan. Bernard J 1899-1901 

Flynn. William 1S90 

Fogwell. Richard E 1 S97 

Foley, Patrick E 1S79-80 

Ford, Nathaniel 18C0 

Flouds. .John E 1882 

Fraprio, George W 18o7-G0 

French. Asa P 185C, ISGl 

French, Job B 1870-71, 1873 

Friar, Thomas 1885 

Funk, Frederick A 1894-95 

Gagnon, Frederic J 1900-02 

Galvin, .John 1884 

Gardner, Oliver L 185C 

Gardner, Stephen B 18GG-G9 

Garrahy, Simon 1881 

Garsi<le, Isaac J 1901-02 

G«rvey, Dennis 1877 

Geoffrion, Victor ISSl 

Giblin. Edward M 1893-95 

O|if£ord, Daniel 1859-GO 

Gifford, Stephen B 1858. 1SG7-GS 

Gillan. Patrick 1SS5 

Goff. Herbert M ISO I 



Goodrum, William P 1854-55 

Gorman, Augustus P 1889-91, 1893-94 

Giandfield, Michael 1883 

Greene, Thomas E 1895-9C 

Greene, William S 187G-79 

Griffin, Thomas H 1889-90 

Grinnell, Oliver : 1854 

Groves, Gardner 1854 

Hacking, Thomas 1SS5-S0, 1888-89 

Hadfield, John H 1895 

Haffards, Griffiths M 1875 

Hall, James L 1890 

Harably, William H 1871 

Hamilton, Charles H 1884 

Hanson, Alfred 1886, 1888 

Hargraves, James 1893-95 

Hargraves, John W 1885 

Hargraves, William H 1892-93 

Harrington, Edward 1875 

Harrington, Edward F 1902 

Harrington, Frank 1894-9G 

Harrington, Hiram C 18G0, 18G4 

Harrington. James J 188C-87 

Harrison, Joseph 1874 

Harrison, Sandy 1881 

Harrison, William H 18G3 

Hart, Abraham G 1856, ISCO 

Hart, William J 1889 

Harwood, Peter 1882-83 

Harwood, Thomas J 1884 

Hathaway, Guilford H 1S64-G5 

Hathaway, James B 1856 

Hathaway. Richmond B., Jr 189G 

Haven, George C 18S7-SS 

Hawes, William M 1SG1-G3, 1880-81 

Henry, james W 18SG-89, 1891 

Henry. John P 1880-82 

Henry, Robert 18G3 

Hicks, Thomas F 1898-99 

H'igginson, Edward 1884-85 

Hillard, Charles B 1887-89 

Hoag, Frank W 1896-97 

Hoar, James H 1889-90 

Hobson, Mark 1900-01 

Hodgson, George B 1892-95 

Holieran, James, Jr 1898 

Holmes, Dennis D 1899-1901 

Hood, Francis B 18G1-G2, 1872-73 

Hopewell. William 18?6-9S 

Houghton. .John H 1863-64 

Howard, James 1891 

Howard, Robert 1892 

Howarth, James 1874 

Hunt.sman, William V 1862 

Hurley. John T 1884 

Hurley. Richard 18S2 

Hurley. William J 1880 

Ivers. Michael 1 1S77. 1879 



HISTORY OF FALL RTVER 



Jackson, Amos M iS'JT 

Jackson, Kdwin 1S9G-97 

Jackson, James A 1887-88 

Jalbert. Thtoilule 1888 

Jarvis, John T 1900 

Jennings, George F 1893 

Jennings, William H 1S5G, 1858-59 

Jepson, Moses 1878 

Johnson, George F 1898-99 

Johnston, John F J890-91, 1895 

Johnson, Myles J 1898-99 

Jones, Michael B 1887-88 

Judge, Patrick H 1886 

Kay, Benjamin D 18G9-70 

Kearnan. Francis V 1870 

Kearns. David A 1 893-94 

Keefe, Daniel 1884 

Keefe, William F 1895 

Kelly, Oornelius 1902 

Kelly, Cornelius L 1870-73, 1882 

Kelly, John J 1898 

Kelly, Michael J 1882-84 

Kelly, Timothy E 1902 

Kelly, Zeno 1S70-72 

Kendall, Frederick 1898 

Kennedy, James 1 897-99 

Kennedy. William 1892 

Kenn'ey, John T 1899-1902 

Keough, John 1887 

Kilburn, Elijah C 18G0-G3, 18CG-G8 

Kilroy, Matthew 1885-8G 

Lancaster. Marry C 1901-02 

Lannigan. John S. H 1901-02 

Ivatham, Thomas 1883 

Dawson, Frederick W 1900 

Lajwton. Thomas W 18G8 

Deary, Dennis F 1899-1901 

Deary, Quinlan 187G 

DeiBoeuf, Francis X 1897-98 

Lee, Thomas J 185G 

Leonard, Marcus 1S7G 

Lewis. Robert 187.5-76 

Lincoln. Jonathan T 1859-60 

Lindsey, Crawford E 1869-70. 1874 

Lingard, Thomas 1900 

Ix)cke, George W 1863 

Lockhan. Alexander 1880 

Ijockwood. Allen 1875 

Loniax. Terrance J 1894-95. 1898 

lyomax, William > 1900-02 

Ixjoney, Edward 1 880 

Luby. Patrick B 1886-87 

Lunney. Patrick J 1868, 1871-73 

Luscomb. Andrew 1 867-72 

Luther. Ebiunezer 1857-58 

Luther. James B 1857. 1864 

iVlacfarlane. John A 1874 

.Macombrr, Pardon 1864. 1868-69. 1875 



Macomber, Philip C 1882 

Aiaines. Henry 1892-93. 1895, 1900 

Malone, L. Frank 1898-99 

Malone, William P 1902 

Manley, Robert L 1902 

Mann, Andrew 1900-01 

Mantius, Joseph H 189G 

Martin. Thomas 1879-80 

Mason, John, Jr 1854 

Mayes, Bphraim • 1897 

Maynard, Paul H 1900 

McCann, John B 1874-7G 

McCarthy, John 1896-97 

Mccarty, Patrick .) 1877-78 

McCreery, Joseph 1878 

McCreery, Thomas U 1892 

McDerniott, Andrew 1875-77 

-.icDermott, Thomas F 1899-1900 

McDonald, Edward 1876 

McDonough, John F 1867 

McPad'den, Neil 1878 

Mcuraw. Frank 1879. 1881 

McGraw, Joseph 189G 

Mclntyre, William J 1S5C. 18G4, 1871 

McKenna. Frank T 189G 

McKenney, William H 1881-82 

McDauehlen, John R 1889 

McManus, Peter 1875, 1900 

Meek, William 1880-81 

Mellor. Francis T 1892 

Miller, Benjamin W 1858 

Miller, David C 1&!5 

Miller, Lorenzo T ' 

Mills. Charles E 1804 

Mills. Edwin J 1893 

Milne. James T 1872 

Milne. John C 1861-65 

Minnehan. John 1881 

Moran, Thomas 1896-97 

Morrill. Jonathan E 1867-69 

Morris, George H 1880 

Morrison, Andrew H 1897 

Morrissey. John 1 890 

.Viiirphy. Edward F 1883 

Murphy. Edward H 1892 

Murphy. James W 189G. 1898 

Murphy. Timothy C. (1) 1874 

Murphy. Timothy C. (2) 1892 

Nason. Elias C 1858-59 

Neill. .Joseph O 1871. 1877 

Newman. Michael 18S6-S7 

Nicholson. Mitchell 1895 

Nicholson. Robert 1886-88. 1894 

Nightingale. John 1893-95 

Niles. Ephriam C 1902 

Norsworthy. Henry 1872-74. 1876-77 

Nugent, Michael J 1902 

Nuttall. Henry 1873 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



153 



Nultall, Isaac 1S93-91 

O'Connor, John F 1885 

O'Hearn, Michael 1893 

O'Hearn, Robert 1873-74 

O'Keefe, Timothy T 1893-95 

ONeil, Dennis D 1864 

O'Neil, James D 1877 

O'Reagan, Joseph 1889 

Osborn, Bben, Jr 185i; 

Osborn, Franl<lin P 1882-83 

Osborn, James M 1800, 1871 

Ostx)rn, Weaver 1863 

Paine, Walter, 3d 1S74, 1878 

Partington, Jamas 1882 

Pashley, William F 1898-99 

Perkins, William, Jr 1888 

Picard, Alcides J 1902 

Pierce, Nathaniel 1859 

Pollard, George 1879-80 

Pope, Isaiah P 1861 

Potter, Thomas T 1854, 1865 

Powers, James 1 883 

Powers, Thomas R 1879 

Pratt, Henry 18G1 

Quinlan, William H 1893 

Quinn, Andrew 1892, 1894 

Quinn, Martin 1888-89 

Ragan, Philip 1876, 1879 

Randall, Benjamin F 1882 

Read, Herbert H 1892-95 

Read, Walter D 1882-83, 1887-89 

Reagan, Edmund 1886 

Reagan, Timothy E 1897 

Remington, Clinton V. S 1873, 1875-76 

Remington, Clinton V. S., Jr 1892 

Remington Joshua 1863 

Renaud, Adelard 1901 

Reynard, Rol)ert P 1860 

Reynolds, John 1886 

Reynolds, William J 189--" 

Rhodes, Jtohn 1892-93 

Rich, Adolphus 1881 

Riley, Frank 1901-02 

Riley, .John 1 874-75 

Riley, John W lS,S9-90, 1901 

Rimmer, Jeffrey 1895-96 

Ripley, Charles L 1876-79 

Roberts, James J 1880 

Robertson, George 1857 

Robertson, William S 1857, 1882-83 

Robertson, William S., 2d 1862 

Roth, .John H 1857 

Rounseville, Cyrus C 1883-85 

Russell, Henry 1867 

Ryan. Joseph H 1891 

Sanderson. George 1891 

Sandford. Thomas 188a 

Sargent, Leroy 1866-67 



Shaughnessey, Jeremiah W 1891-92 

Shay, John F 1875-76 

Shay, Patrick H 1891-92 

Shay, William 1896-97 

Shea, Michael H 1892 

Simmons, Alexander, Jr 1886-88 

S'inimon.s, Arthur F 1902 

Sinclair, James 1901-02 

Sisson, John F 1855 

Skinner, Herbert A 1864 

Slack, .JosGi'h 1895 

Slade, Brayton 1855 

SlaJe. Eugene 1891-90 

SUiiK^ John P 1855. lS(;0-07. 1877-78 

Slater, John 1895 

Smith, Bernard 1900-01 

Smith, Charles 1888, 1890, 1897-98 

Smith, George 1900-02 

Smith, James 1879 

Smith, Robert 1884 

Smith, William R 1897 

Smithies, Robert 1804-66 

Southworth, John 1881-82 

Southworth, Spaulding 1871 

btandring, James 1893 

Stickney, Charles P 1857 

bullivan, Daniel R 1874 

Sullivan, James J 1892 

Sullivan, John F. (Ward 1) 1899-1900 

Sullivan, John F. (Ward 5) 1899-1900 

Sullivan, John J 1893 

Sullivan, Michael F 1888 

Sullivan, Michael H 1880 

Sullivan, Michael J 1891 

Sullivan, Patrick R 1872, 1875 

Sullivan, Philip, Jr 1901 

Sullivan, Simon S 1895-96 

Sullivan, Thomas F 1897 

Sweeney, Michael 1884 

Synan, William 1869-71 

Taylor, George 1864 

Taylor, William H 1850 

Terry, Joseph C 1870-71. 1874 

Thacker. John F 1808-69 

Th.-ckery. Richard 1879 

Thomas. George Fred 1899-1900 

Thomas. Seth R 1890-91 

Thomas. William F 1882-83 

Thompson. Edward F 1896-97. 1S99-1900 

'i aorpe. Vincenl 1881-82 

Thurston, Anthony 1860-07 

Thurston, James E 1870-73 

Tiomey, Joseph 1891 

Tillinghast, Christopher W 18.54. 1857 

Tlllson. Joseph E 1889-91 

Tiukham. John G 188.5-80 

Tripp. Charles F 1887-91. 1894-95 

Tucker, Lorenzo D 1859 



154 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



1 urner, Joseph lb9S-1901 

Tyrrell, Thomas 1883-84 

Walker, Amos 1878 

Walker, James 1880 

Walsh, Philip S 1884 

Walton, Thomas 188G-89 

Waterhouse, Joseph S 1898-99 

Walters, Frank M 1901-02 

Walters, Joseph 187G 

Webster, H. Gordon 1877 

Wells, J. Henry 1883 

Westgate, Abnor L 1857-58, 18C5 

Whalley, William 1885-86 

Whitaker, John B 18C1-G2, 18G4 

Whiitaker, Peter 1887-88 

White, Peter C 185G 

Wilbur, Henry 1854-55, 18G1 

Wilbur, Leander D 1855 

Wilcox, Samuel B 18C8, 1880, 1882-85 

Wiley, William J 1880 

Wilkinson, Thomas 1892, 1894-95 

Willetts, Isaac E 1893-94 

Wilson, D wight B 1881 

Wilson, James H 1877 

Wilson, Job T 18C8-C9 

Winchester, John P 185G 

Winslow, Albert 1854 

Winslow, Benjamin F 1872 

Winslow, Smith 1854 

Winstanley, James H 1898-99 

Win ward, James 1871 

Wixon, James 185G 

Wolfcndale, William 1873, 1875, 1877 

Wood, Joel ISrS, 18G9-70 

Wood. John J 1873 

Wood, William 1881 

Woodman. Job W 18G4-G5 

Wordell, Jethro H 1883, 1S85-8C 

Wrighlinglon. Stephen C 1855-5C 

Yarwoort. Mark 188G-87 

CITY CLERKS. 

Ballard, Alvan S 1855-G3 

Ballard, George A 18G4-9S 

Brayton, Arthur B 1898- 

Hodges, John R 1R.')4 

ASSISTANT CITY CLERKS. 

Ballard, Alvan R 1898- 

Brayton, Arthur B 1885-98 

Bufflnton. Clarence 1884 

CITY TRK.\SrRKI{S. 

Ballard. Alvan S 1S55-G3 

Ballard, George A 1SG4-74 

Brady. James C 1877-85 

Brightman, Charles P ISSG- 



Brown, Samuel M 1874-7G 

Hodges, John R 1854 

CITY COLLECTORS. 

Adams, Robert 1SG8-71 

Albert, Clinton G 1901- 

Ballard, Alvan S 1S55-G1 

Billings, George W 1872-74 

Bowers, Frederick 1900 

Brady, James C 1877-85 

Brightman, Charles P 188G-99 

Brown, Samuel iV 1874-7G 

Karl, Benjamin 18C2-G7 

Hodges, John R 1854 

CITY AUDITORS. 

Adams, Robert 18C8-71 

Anthony, Arthur 1882-84 

Billings, George W 1872-81 

Buffinton, Clarence 1884-95 

Earl, Benjamin 18G3-G7 

Clarke, Henry W 1S9G- 

CITY EXGINEKRS. 

Borden, Philip 1).. Jr 1880-97 

Borden, Philii) D 1898- 

CITY SOLICITORS. 

Blaisdell, Josiah C 1SG8-C9, 1873-74 

Boomer, Frederick A 18C0-C3, 1870 

Borden, Sime;)n 1857-59 

Braley, Henry K 1874 

Brayton, John S 1S55-5G 

Dubuque, Hugo A 1900- 

Grime, George 1893-95 

Hatheway, Nicholas 1890 

Higginson. Edward 1889, 18!n-92 

Jackson. James K 1881-85, 1887-88 

Morton, James M., Jr 1864-C7 

Pierce, William H 1871-72 

Phillips. Arthur S 1899 

Reed, Milton 1875-80 

Sullivan, Dennis V 188C 

Wood. L. Elmer lS9fi-9S 

ASSESSORS OF TAXES. 

Billclifte, Thomas 1878-81 

Bliss. Hiram 1855 

Brown, Samuel M 1873. 1877-78 

Bumnton. Benjamin 188G-S8 

Bumnton, Edward 1S55, 1S74-7C. 1880-83 

Collins, .lohn E 1S7G 

Conroy. Daniel 18C9 

Cook. William H 1S9G-1902 

Cunneen. James E 1881 

Davol. Abner P 189S-1903 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



155 



Davol, Richmond 1S57, lS(iO-Gl 

Uoheity, Edward A 1903- 

Durfce, Waller U 1870 

Eddy, Georgs H 1SS9-94, 1904- 

Esles, John H 1877 

Fuller, Rufus T 1868 

Gardner, Stephen B 1869 

Gifford, Stephen B 1855-56, 1859-60 

Gunn, Horatio N 185 1-5C, 1860 

Harrison, Sandy 1888-1903 

Hathaway, Guiltord H..1854, 1857-58, 1861-62 

Hathaway, Russell 1856 

Healy, Abram 1889 

Healy, Joseph 1862-63 

Hodges, John R 1857 

Holder, Thomas F 187*2 

Hood, Francis B 1868-69, 1871 

Howard, Albert G 1864-65, 1867-68 

Kelly, Jeremiah 1873-79 

La Plante, Isaih 1905- 

Leonard, Daniel 1856 

Marvel, Philip M 1SC6-6S, 1874-75 

Mason, Philip, Jr 1856 

McManus, Peter 1879-80 

Morton, James M...1S61, ISCS, 1868-69, 1S73 

O'Hearn, Robert 1882-93 

Palmer, George W 1870-72 

Pooler, Beth 1864 

Searlo, Charles F 1866 67. 1869-72 

Slade. Jonathan 1803-65 

Slocum, Mark A 1857 

Stewart, William W 1884-87 

Vickery, Caleb B 1854 

Waring, William J 1882-85 

Winslow, Benjamin F 1857-60, 1862 

Winslow, Smith 1855 

Wood, William F 1863 

Wrightington. Stephen C 1858-59 



CITY MESSENGERS. 

Carpenter, Joseph W 1858-72 

CTOsson, James D 1886- 

Etovis, John C 1854-56 

Dean, Charles L 1883-85 

O'Neil. Dennis D 1873-77 

Pike, M. Frank 1878-82 

Wilson, Abraham W 1857 

CLERKS OF COMMITTEES. 

Brayton, Arthur B 1885-95 

Bummon. Clarence 1884 

Dwelly, Frederick 1905- 

Manchester. James G 1896-98 

Pi-itchard, George S. B l'S9S-99 

Stewart. David C, Jr 1900-04 



SUPERINTENDENTS OF STREETS. 

Horton, Danforth 18.59-67, 1869-77 

Manchester, Alexander 1S6S 

Thurston, Anthony 1878-94 

Thurston, Frank A 1894- 

SUPERINTENDENTS OF PUBLIC 
BUILDINGS. 

Adams, James M 1882-88 

Brownell, Isaac T 1881 

Ryley, John 1889-1904 

Shay, Danliel H 1905- 

SUPERINTENDENTS OF SCHOOLS. 

Bates, William C 1894-1905 

Connell, William 1882-94 

Connell, William, Jr 1872-81 

Durfee, Everett B 1905- 

Stevens, Daniel W 1SG5-66 

Tewksbury, M. W 1867-72 

SUPERINTENDENTS OF OAK GROVE 
CEMETERY. 

Buffinton, Ediward P 1856 

Buffinton, Oliver 1857-67 

Livesey, Michael 1868 

Morrill, Jonathan E 1869-97 

Morris, John 1903- 

Smitih, Charles 1899-1903 

Standing, Thomas B 1898 

SUPERINTENDENTS OF. NORTH 
BURIAL GROUNDS. 

Brightman, Thomas E 1854-65 

Corbett, Owen 1875-76, 1878 

Cowen, George 1872 

Hoar, Charles P 1900 

Horsman, Francis 1866-71 

Hyland, James G 1873-74, 1877 

Morris, John 1893-97 

O'Brien, Michael 1898- 

W'hite, Stephen 1879-88 

White, Walter 1889. 1891-92 

CHIEF ENGINEERS OF THE FIRE 
DEPARTMENT. 

Borden, Thomas J 1870-72 

Connell, Thomas 1S75 

Davol. William C 1892-97, 1901- 

Davol, William C. Jr 1876-81, 1884-91 

Durfee, Holder B 1873-74 

Greene, Chester W 1857 

Langford. James 1898-1900 

Macfarlane, John A 1882-83 

Miller. Southard H 18(ro-69 

.Morrill. Jonathan E 1855-56. 1858-59 



i5b 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



DEPUTY CHIEF ENGINEERS OF THE 

FIRE DEPARTMENT. 
Bowers. Joseph. Jr 19(i5- 

ASSISTANT ENGINEERS OF THE 
FIRE DEPART.MENT. 

Brownell. Isaac T 1877-78. 1880 

Carey, Edward P 1905- 

Connell, Thomas 1883 

Langford. James 1885-90 

McKenney. Felix, Jr..l87C, 1879, 18S1-S2, 1884 
Remington. Hale 1897-190 1 

CITY MARSHALS. 

Brigham, D. Sewell 1878-81 

Buffinion. Samuel R 1858-59 

Eames, Asa 1862-G3 

Gray, Franklin 18CC 

Greene, Chester W 1857, 18C0-C1 

HJlI'iard, Rufus B 188G- 

Hunt. Josiah A 1882-80 

Sisson. William 1855-5G 

Wilcox, Henry C 18C4-C5 

Winslow, Albert 18C7-G8 

Wright, Andrew R 18G9-77 

ASSISTANT CITY MARSHALS. 

Borden, James F 1873-71 

Borden, John R 1872-74 

Brocklehurst, John 1872-74 

Carpenter, l>ewis W 18CG 

Chace, Mark P 1870-71 

Eaton, Josiah K 18G7 

Fleet. John 18871- 

Flynn, Patrick 1873-74 

Hall, Amaziah C 1873-74 

Harding, Charles 1873-74 

Hilliard, Rufus B 1883-8G 

Hinckley, Charles 1882 

Holden, George 1SG7-G9 

Hunt, Josiah A 1S81 

McMahon, Simon 1873 

O'Neal, D. D lSGS-72 

Packard, Timothy C 1874 

Pearce, Albert T 1872-74, 1877-80 

Pearce, Bowen L 18G1-G5 

Rawson, S. P 1873 

Reed, William 18G4-G0 

Reed, William, Jr 1858-G3 

Sayward, John W 18G8-74 

Sergens, Edward L 1SG7-71 

Taber, Gideon 18GC 

Watson, James E 1858-G2 

Winter, William A 1873-74 

Wrighllnglon, William E 1803-74 

Wyalt, George W 1872-70 



PHYSICIANS. 

Abbott, John H 1879-81 

Bowen, Seabury W 1872-74 

Buck, Augustus W 1897-98 

Co])cland, Charles W 1878 

Cummings, Michael A 1894-9G 

Davis, Robert T 1857-58 

Dedrick, Albert C 1899-1903 

Dwelly, Jerome 1855-5G, 1859, 18G5-GS 

Gilbert, John '. 1898-99 

Hartley, James W 1802-64 

Kelly, Michael 1891-93 

Learned, Ebenezer T 18G0-G1 

Leary, John H 1888-90 

Merritt, S. Virgil 1903- 

bmith, Isaac, Jr 1871 

Sullivan, James E 1882-87 

Tourtellot, .John Q. A 1875-77 

Whitaker. John B 1809-70 

FIRST DISTRICT PHYSICIANS. 

Fecteau, Adelard 1900-02 

Gilbert, John 1891-93 

Gunning, Thomas 1894-90 

Huard, .Joseph E 1897-99 

SECOND DISTRICT PHYSICIANS. 

Collett, Peter A. A 1894-90 

Gibbs, Samuel W 1900-02 

Harris, Emanuel 1897-99 

St. Germain. Valmore 1891-93 

ASSISTANT CITY PHYSICIANS. 

Butler. Richard B 1900- 

Fecteau. Adelard 1903- 

Herbert. Edward 1903-05 

ME.MBERS OF BOARDS OF COM.MISSION- 
ERS OF THE SINKING FUNDS. 

Abbott, John H 1900-01 

Anthony, Arthur 1882-84 

Eassett, Charles A 1888-1901 

Billings, George W 1874-81 

Borden. Nathaniel B 1890-91 

Borden. Simeon 1874-95 

Borden, Thomas. Jr 1874-75 

Braley. Henry K 1882-83 

Brown. Samuel M 1874-70 

Bufflnton. Charles C 1887-88 

Bufflnton. Clarence 1885-94 

Carroll. William 1874-75 

Clarke, Henry W 1895- 

Clarke. ,Iohn S. B 1890 

Coughlin. John W 1891-94 

Covel, Alphonsn S 1870-78 

Cummings. John W 1885, 1887-88 



HISTORY OF FALL RTVER 



J57 



I>avenport, James F 1874-77 

D .vol, Abner P 18S2-93 

Durfee, Randall N 1894 

Earl, Henry H 1882-84 

Eddy, George H 1876 

Eddy, George H.. Jr 1902-04 

Greene. William S 1877-80. 188C. 1895 

Grime, George 1902-03 

Hargraves, James 1895 

Hathaway, Edward E 1879- 

Hawes, William M 1880 

Henry, James W 1889 

Henry, Robert ISSl 

Higginson, Edward 1896-99 

Hopewell, William 1898 

Huard, John B 1904-05 

Hudner, Michael T lyOG 

Jackson, Amos M 1897-99 

Jackson, James F 1889-90 

Lawson, Frederick W 1900 

Lindsey, Crawford E 1878-79 

Marshall. Robert 1905- 

McGraw, Frank 1881 

Reed, Milton 1884 

R ley, Frank 1902 

Rjunseville, Cyrus W 1885 

Stickney, Charles P 1874-78 

Talbot. Herbert C 1904- 

Thcmpson. Edward F 1899 

Tinkham. John G 18S6 

Tripp, Azariah S 1879-87 

Watters, Frank M 1901 

Wood, L. Elmer 1900- 

MEMBERS OF THE BOARDS OF FIRE 
COMMISSIONERS. 

De Tonnancour. Godfroy 1903-04 

Durfee, George N 1903-05 

Lynch, Edward 1903- 

.McNally. Michael 1905- 

Woodman. Charles 13 1906- 

MEMBERS OF BOARDS OF OVERSEERS 
OF THE POOR. 
(The Mayor and Aldermen were the 
Oversee of the Poor from 1854 to 1S90.) 

Abbott, John H 1900-01 

Brady. James C 1894-1906 

Braley. Henry K 1890-91 

Buffinlon, Charles C 1890-1906 

Coughlin, John T 1905-06 

Coughlin, John W 1891-94 

Cuttle. John 1892-93 

Greene. Cornelius S 1890-1906 

Greene. William S 1895-97 

Grime, George 1902-04 

Holmes, Charles J lS'JO-1905 



J: "kson, Amos M 1S9S-99 

Jackson, James F 1S90 

Wordell, Marcus M i9oC 

AGENTS OF BOARDS OF OVERSEERS OF 
POOR. 

Brown. Samuel M., Jr lS7o-76 

Buffinton, Benjamin 1880-81 

Fairbanks. George 1877-79. 1SS2-83 

Harrison, Joseph 1884-1904 

Plummer. Edward 1904-00 

MEMBERS OF THE BOARDS OF PARK 
COMMISSIONERS. 

Cook, Richard H 1902- 

i>anielson, Charles R 1902- 

Doherty, Edward A 1902-03 

Madden, Thomas J 1903-05 

McClarance, Mat the w A 1902- 

Aadeau. John B 190G- 

Small. Reuben C, Jr 1902-05 

Torphy, John E. . . 1905- 

MBMBERS OF THE RESERVOIR 
COMMISSIONS. 

Abbott. John H 190tK>l 

Biltcllfte. William 1906- 

Borden, Philip D 1895- 

Coughlin, John T 1905- 

Clarke. John S. B 1903-05 

Eddy, George H lS95-19ii4 

Greene, William S 1895-97 

Grime, George 190204 

Harley. William J 1904-05 

Jackson, Amos M 189S99 

Leary. Jeremiah R 1895-97 

Mitchell, William 1901-05 

Sullivan, Daniel J 1906- 

Sweeney. Michael 1897-1902 

Watson, Saiuuel 1895-1 900 

Watters, Joseph 1900- 

CLERK OF THE RESERVOIR 
COMMISSIONS. 
Borden, Philip D 1895- 

MEMBERS OF SCHOOL CO.MMITTEES. 

Adams. Edward S 1894-1906 

Adams, Lydian S 1872-73 

Adams, Robert 1S69-71 

Adams, William W 1866-07, lS7iV79 

Aldrich, James M 1854-60. 1S72-7S 

Aldricli. Louisa G 1880-97 

Archer, John J 1878 SO 

Barnett. Robert E 1857-58 

Bennett, William G 18Sl)-99 



J58 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Boomer, Frederic A 18G5 07, 18G9-71 

Borden, Simeon 18C0-C3, 1872-74 

Borden, Spencer 1884-85 

Brady, John 1891-93 

JJronson, George W 1874, 1879-81 

Brown, John 1891-93 

Buck, Charles W 18GG-G8 

Bullock, Andrew D 18G2-G4 

Brown, Samuel M 18G7-G9 

Butler, S. Wright 1871-73 

Chace, S. Angier 1855-59 

Cook, Benjamin 18SG-90 

Cone, Dwight E 1891-92 

Connell, Arthur 1 19n3--06 

Connell, William 1SG5-73 

Davis, Benjamin H 1855 

Dawley, Joseph E 1855-50, 1859-S2 

Diman, J. Lewis 1859-60 

Dubuque, Hugo A 1884-90 

Dwelly, Jerome 1S54-5C, 1S59-G0, 1804-78 

Earl, Benjamin 1SGG-G9 

Eddy, Thomas P 1874, 187G-78 

Eric, William H 1875-80 

Fairbanks, George O 1SGG-C8 

Ford, James 1855-56 

Gould, John B 1860 

Grant, Percy S 1851-93 

Hartley, James W lS57-5'8 

Hathaway, Richmond B., Jr 1904-OG 

Hathaway, Warren 1 858-59 

Healy, Harriet 'l 1880-94 

Henry, Robert 1869-71 

Holmes, Charles J 18G2-C5. 1868-79 

Holmes, Thomas 1865 

Hooper, Poster 18G0-G5 

Hunt, Ebenezer V/ 1882 

Hurley, Patrick J 1SS3-89 

Hyde, Mary E 1895-1906 

Jackson, Amos M 1879-87 

Jennings, Andrew J 1875-77 

Kennedy, William A 1872-74 

Lawton, Job G 1854 

Learned. Ebenezcr T 1855-56 

Leland, Mary G 1873 

Lincoln, Leontine 1880-1903 

Lind'sey, Crawford E 1870-72 

Locke, George W 1866 

Locke, Jeremiah F 1888-90 

Lyman, Payson W 1893-1901 

Maclaren. William 1857-03 

Martin, William J 1894-1906 

McCreery, James E 1S79 

McCreery, Robert E 1899-1902 

Mills. Charles E 1877-79 

Osborn, Hannah F 1898-1900. 1902-06 

Peloquin, Pierre F 1897-1903 

Poolerl. Seth 1859-60, 18G7-6S 

Porter, Emery M 1857-59 



Ramsbottom, Thomas L 1879-84 

Reed, Milton 1870-71 

Scott, Waller , 1875 

Slade, Albion K 1875-76 

Smith, Agnes M 1901-06 

Smith, Irani N 1877-78 

Snow, Charles A 1860-64 

Swift, Marcus G. B 1881-83, 1888-90 

Thurston, Eli 1854-55. 1858-59 

Tourtellot, John Q. A 1881-83 

Tripp, Almadus W 1857-59 

Tripp, Azariah S 1854-64, 1868-70 

Waring, William J 1894-96 

Warner, William R 1885-87 

Wiley, George T 1902-06 

Wixon, Susan H 1874-70, 1890-1900 

Wright, Alfred A 1866 

MEMBERS OF THE WATUPPA WATER 
BOARDS. 

Biltclifte, William 1905- 

Borden, Philip D 1871-82 

Bowen, Joseph A 1871-74 

Butler, John 1874-78 

Coffey, Michael T 1893-96 

Everett, Nathan B 1899-1905 

Field, George 1 1898-1901 

Hawes, William B 1894-1900 

Hawes, William M 1882-9 1 

Holden, Andrew 1896-99 

Lindsey, William 1871-79 

Neill, .Joseph O 1879-82 

Osborn, Weaver 1S7S-93 

Sullivan, Daniel J 1906- 

Watters, Joseph 1883-98. 1901- 

CLEHKS OF 'IHE WATER BOARDS AND 
WATER REGISTRARS. 

Churchill, Charles H 1S72-79 

Robertson, Will iam W 1 S79- 

SUPBRINTENDENTS OF W.\TER WORKS. 

Briggs, George A 1871-74 

Carr. William, Jr (acting) 1880 

Kieran. Patrick 18SC- 

Alartine, Alfred H 1881-84 

Rotch. William 1S75-79 

MEMBERS OF THE BOARDS OF HEALTH. 
(The Board of Aldermen acted as the 
Board of Health up to 1878.) 

Abbott, John H 1879-81 

Anthony, James S 1878-86, 1889-90 

BMlcllffe, Thomas 1887-88 

Braley, Isaac L 1903- 

Buck, Augustus W 1897-98 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



159 



Bufflnton, Benjamin 1S90-91 

Cabana, Louis V 1898-1901 

Collett, Peter A. A 1902- 

Copeland, Charlc s W 1878 

Cummings, Michael 1S9'4-9C 

Dedrick, Albert C 1900-02 

DeGrandpre, Louis P 1892-95 

Gilbert, Jonn 1898-99 

Hicks, Charles A 1895-1905 

Kelly, Michael 1891-93, 190C- 

Leary, John H 1888-90 

Leonard, John M 1838-89 

Merritt, d. Virgil 1903- 

McGraw, Frank 188C-S8 

Morriss, Samuel B 1891-94 

St. George. Archibald 189C-97 

tjullivan. James E 1878-83 

Winslow. Benjamin F 1878-83 

Young, John M 1884-85 

AGENTS OF THE BOARDS OF HEALTH. 
(One of the members of the Board acted 
as Agent of the Board up to 1902.) 
Morriss. Samuel B 1902- 

CLERKS OF THE BOARDS OF HEALTH. 
(The City Clerk acted as Clerk of the 
Board up to 1890.) 

..lason, George R 1890-93 

Wiseman, Thomas F 1893- 

INSPECTORS OF PLUMBING, 
i.ynch. James H Is!)!- 

MEMBERS OF THE BOARDS OF 
TRUSTEES OF THE PUBLIC LIBRARY. 
(Since the establishment of the library In 
1860.) 

Abbott, John H 1900-01 

Abraham, John 1879-81 



Adams, William W 1SS2 

Bassett, Rufus W 1891-1900, 190C 

Bennett, William G 1879-81 

Borden, Simeon 18C0-72, 1874-79 

Borden, Spencer 1900- 

Braley, Henry K 1882, 1905- 

Browu, Samuel ..l : 1800-73 

Bufflnton, Edwaia P 1 SCO-GO 

Butler, John 1873-75 

Coughlin, John VV . .' 1891-94 

Cummings, John W 1885, 1887, 1888 

Davenport, James F 18^4-77 

Davis, Robert T 1873, 187C-78 

Fairbanks, George O 1867-08 

Gorniley, John E 1880-82 

Greene, William S 1880-81, 1886, 1895- 

Grime, George 1902-04 

Hawes, Oliver S 1901- 

Henry, Robert 1881-99 

Holmes, Charles J 1800-78, 1880-1906 

Hughes, Christopher 1899- 

Jackson, Amos M 1898-99 

Jackson. James F 1889-90 

Leary, Jeremiah R 1875-77 

Leland, Phineas W 1860-70 

Letourneau, Alfred S 1906- 

Lincoln, Leontine 1878- 

Lindsey, Crawford E 1878-90 

Lyon, Henry 1860-82 

.McDonough. John J 1904- 

.\Iorlon, James M 1883-97 

Paine, Walter, 3d 1800-79 

Reed, Milton 1884 

Reeves. Edmund 1905 

Warner. William R 1884-98 

Westall. John 1870-04 

LIBRARIANS OF THE PUBLIC LIBRARY. 

Ballard, George A 1800-63 

Ballard, William R 1864-1905 

Rankin, George W 1905- 

Remington, Charles G 1804 





Ciipyrlght, ISitfi. by IIiiriuT A: Brothers. 
Mjtthcw C. D. Borden 



CHAPTER XVm 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES OF WELL-KNOWN FALL RIVER MEN, 
PAST AND PRESENT 



" cA sacred burden is the life ye bear. 
Look on it, lift it, bear it solemnly ; 
Stand up and tvalk beneath it steadfastly ; 
Fad not for sorronx), falter not for sin, 
^Dvt onivard, uptuard, till the goal ye ttiin. 



M. C. D. BORDEN.— If Fall River men and 
women were asked who of the city's citizens 
had done most for it, the answer, in nine 
cases out of ten, would be Mr. M. C. D. Bor- 
den, and that without a moment's hesita- 
tion. Nor would they be wrong, for, in 
addition to erecting a mammoth plant that 
has given employment to thousands of peo- 
ple, which has added immeasurably to the 
growth and prosperity of the city, he has 
kept that plant running with constant em- 
ployment at good wages through good times 
and bad, and has often come to the assist- 
ance of the other corporations by relieving 
them of stocks of cloth that were proving 
a source of uneasiness. His action has more 
than once averted the closing of the other 
mills till they could sell their cloth, and 
has frequently prevented a reduction of 
wages. In more cases than one, moreover, 
he has, by his independent action, raised 
the compensation of his employees and 
thereby benefited the entire city by making 
a similar advance necessary in all the mills. 
There is another side of Mr. Borden which 
is never forgotten, and that is the philan- 
thropic. He himself declared in 1.S9.5, at a 
notable dinner on the occasion of the start- 
ing of the No. 4 mill of the Iron Works 
plant, at which he announced a gift of 
$100,000 to the charities of Fall River, that 
"unusual success in the accumulation of 
wealth brings with it inseparably extraor- 
dinary responsil)ilities." and he has nobly 
fulfilled lliis by what he has done in erect- 
ing the beautiful club building, a picture 
of which appears in this work, for the poor 
boys of Fall River, to which he is now 
erecting a large addition for the use of the 
men. If all the immense plants owned by 
Mr. Borden were swept away, this would 



stand as a noble memorial to the man and 
his kindly heart, and would ensure his l)eing 
held in grateful remembrance by the work- 
ing people of Fall River for generations. A 
bold and skilful operator, who has had the 
courage to push forward where others held 
back. Mr. Borden has earned the phenome- 
n.il success that has come to him. His 
iMisiness methods are essentially modern, 
his decisions once taken are executed with 
promptness. He has made the product of 
the American Printing Company in a sense 
the standard of the world, and the cotton 
mills that supply it a model for all manu- 
facturers. His competitors, though they 
may at times feel being beaten at their own 
game, yet hold an admiration none the less 
deep and sincere for this master of industry. 
The fact that Mi-. Borden is a native of 
this city, where he spent his early days, and 
a descendant of Fall River men of sterling 
character who had been most active in pro- 
moting its welfare, naturally plays no small 
part in the pride Fall River takes in his 
achievements. The son of Col. Richard Bor- 
den and Abby W. Durfee, he came of a 
long line of distinguished ancestry, who 
early emigrated from Kent County. England, 
had been active in the settlement of the 
northern part of Rhode Island and later in 
the development of Fall River, in which the 
Bordens, by securing the control of the 
water power of the stream soon after 1700, 
have always been prominent. His father 
was the first treasurer and agent of the 
Fall River Iron Works Company, organized 
in 1821, and later became an Infiuential of- 
ficer in nearly all the early Industries, like 
the Troy Cotton & Woolen Manufactory, the 
Fall River Manufactory, the Metacomet Mill 
and the American Print Works. It was 



162 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



mainly through his efforts that the first 
railroad here was built, and he was likewise 
the founder of the first line between this city 
and New York, which was later to become 
the famous Fall River Line. Col. Borden 
was. furthermore, active in church and char- 
itable work, and was deservedly one of the 
city's most honored inhabitants. Matthew 
Chaloner Durfee Borden was born here and 
educated first at a boarding school in Au- 
burndale in 1857, then at Phillips' Academy, 
Andover, in 1.S.58 and 1859. He entered Yale 
College, from which he graduated in the 
class of 18C4. He soon became associated 
with the American Printing Company, which 
following the panic of 1873 had met with 
severe reverses, and, together with his 
brother, the late Thomas J. Borden, soon 
placed It on a more substantial basis. Dur- 
ing the first years Mr. M. C. D. Borden di- 
rected the sale of the goods In New York, 
while his brother looked out for the local 
end of the industry. In 1886 the latter di.s- 
poeed of his interest entirely to Mr. M. C. D. 
Bordon, who then became and has continued 
to be the sfjle owner of the plant. Shortly 
after he acquired the abandoned plant of 
the Fall River Iron Works, adjoining the 
print works, razed the buildings, and in 1889 
built the first of the great mills, 380 feet 
long by 120 feet wide and four stories high. 
The mill is said to have been built because, 
as owner of the American Print Works, he 
was sometimes trilled with by treasurers 
and agenth of the mills whose cloth It was 
his business to print. He determined lo 
make a part at least of the cloth that he 
was lo use, and so in a measure liecome 
Independent. The business prospered, and 
In 1892, No. 2 mill was erected. thr»e 
stories 'high, over 575 feet long and 120 feet 
wide, and In 18!l3 No. 3 mill was built, which 
Is :!"»9 feel long and 112 feet wide; it is four 
stories high anrl a very Imposing structure. 
Til" fourth mill, and the large.-<t yet erect- 
ed, followed In 1X95, 372% feet In length and 
I(i5'/1. feet In width. The starting of this 
mill. Oct(»ber 17, 1895, was made the oc- 
casion of a notable breakfast on thi' mag- 
nificent steamer I'riscllla of the Fall River 
Line, which, as has already been said, was 
founded by his father. Col. Borden. A jiurty 
of about seventy distlngulsheil nnd Inlhien- 
tial men id' New York and I'hiladcdplila came 
on from New York as Mr. Borden's guests, 
and aftiT Ijcing Joiiicil by many of the prom- 
inent local cIll/.i'iiH, inspected the plant ami 



witnessed the turning on of the steam by 
the owner that set in motion the immense 
Corliss engine which furnished the motive 
power for 80,000 spindles. The guests then 
adjourned to the dining room of the Pris- 
cilla, where luncheon was served, followed 
by addresses by Mr. Borden, Hon. Charles 
Emory Smith, of Philadelphia; his Honor, 
Ma.vor William S. Greene, of Fall River; J. 
Edward Simmons, president of the Fourth 
National Bank of New York; Hon. John S. 
Brayton, of Fall River; Isaac H. Bailey and 
.John R. Van Wormer, of New York, and 
Hon. Leontine Lincoln, of Fall River. Mr. 
Borden then rose and said: "In bringing 
this part of the day's routine to a close, I 
have to ask your attention to one word more 
from me. In what I now have to say I 
pray that I may not be charged with even 
a suspicion of ostentation or the slightest 
breach of the proprieties that are insepara- 
ble from the truest manhood. Ordinarily It 
Is indisputable that charities should be 
quietly and modestly administered, not dis- 
played. But I am moved to believe 'lat I 
shall not ^be misunderstood If I, for (mce, 
just because of the occasion and Its lessons, 
take a different course in what I am now 
about to do. I believe In success — the great- 
er the better. I believe In the accumulation 
of wealth without any limit, except always 
that fixed by clean and honorable methods. 
But I believe, also, that unusual success 
brings with It inseparably extraordinary 
responsibilities, and, therefore, {standing be- 
fore you In grateful recognition of a kind 
Providence that has so favored nn-, 1 hereby 
announce my Intention to donate to the char- 
ities of Fall River, In such din'ctions as 
may appear to me best, the sum of $l(M).000." 
The announcement was a complete surprise, 
anil aft(!r a moment's astonishment the party 
burst Into applause which last'-d for many 
minutes. Fifteen thousand dollars of the 
gift went toward the liulldliig fund of the 
Home for Aged I'eople. and snialb-r sums to 
other deserving Institutions, but the bulk 
was used In erecting a home for the Hoys' 
(.'lub. The building erected on Anuwan 
street from this friend and the additions 
made to It by Mr. Bord<'n was di'dicaled 
late In 1897. It Is the handsomest of its 
kind for the exclusive use of street hoys In 
the ccuintry and has proved serviceable as 
well as beautiful. It Is of pressed brick 
with brown-stone trimmings, and frie/.e of 
artistic architecture :ind lliilshed In oak 
with colored glass In llw iipinr parts of the 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



t63 



windows. It is equipped with a theatre, 
gymnasium, swimming pool, library and 
club rooms, and has done an excellent work 
for the boys of the city, of whom it has a 
membership of nearly 2.0U0. Mr. Borden is 
now constructing on Pocasset street a large 
addition to the building for the use of the 
men. The work of mill building was not to 
stop, however, with No. 4. A fifth mill in 
the same group followed in 1902, and Nos. 
6 and 7 have since been added. The first 
five mills were all grouped about one enor- 
mous chimney. 350 feet in height and thirty 
feet in diameter at the base. All are of 
brick on granite foundations and are nota- 
bly well lighted and arranged for the most 
profitable manufacturing. Meantime. Mr. 
Borden had acquired the Fall River Machine 
Company's property east of his plant, and 
erected mammoth store-houses. In Decem- 
ber. 1901, he purchased the old Metacomet 
mill property adjoining, in which he in- 
stalled new machines and which 'he has 
largely remodelled. In 1905 he erected 
across the stream on the site of the Anawan 
mill, built in 1S25, and one of the earliest 
here, his latest factory, somewhat smaller 
than some of the other mills, but which 
it is predicted will be ultimately greatly en- 
larged. Other additions and improvements 
are constantly being made. This immense 
cotton plant operates 459.000 spindles and 
13,057 looms. Figures compiled before the 
erection of the No. 7 mill have the amount 
of cotton used each year as (!8,000 bales 
and the yards of cloth produced per annum 
175,000.000. These should be increased 
about one-sixth by the product of the new 
mill. Mr. Borden's print works, with thirty 
machines, easily the largest in the country, 
print four and a half million yards of calico 
each week. The total number of employed 
in the combined plants is between five and 
six thousand. The mills themselves are of 
the most modern architecture and their 
grounds are kept in the best of condition, 
justifying the recent remark of one foreign- 
born citizen, that they are "like a great 
landlord's lawn in the old country." Mr. 
Borden in 1S(:5 married Harriett M. Durfee, 
daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Nat hen Durfee, 
and has three sons living, having lost four 
children — Howard S., the treasurer of the 
Iron Works Company; Bertram H., treas- 
urer of the American Printing Company, and 
Matthew. Mr. M. C. D. Borden is president 
of both corporations, and with the two sons 
first named constitute the board of directors. 



COL. RICHARD BORDEN was born In 
Fall River (formerly Freetown). April 12, 
1795. He was identified with the early ship- 
ping of the place and was largely interested 
in various enterprises, among which was 
the cotton industry. His early education 
was received in the public schools of his 
native place, and early in life began his 
famous career as a manufacturer. He built 
several vessels. Among them was the 
'Irene and the Betsey." For over 50 years 
Mr. Borden was prominent in the financial 
and business interests of the city. He was 
one of the organizers of the Fall River 
Iron Works and was jts itreasureir and 
agent up to the time of retirement from 
active business life. He was interested in 
the building and operation of the Watuppa 
Reservoir Company. Troy Cotton and 
Woollen Manufacturing Co.. The An- 
awan Mill, the American Print Works, the 
.Metacomet Mill. Fall River Railroad and 
Steamboat line. C!as Works and was presi- 




Ci.l. Klvh.lrJ tl...r.k.. 
(D«cc.i»cd) 

dcni and a director of the American Print 
Works. American Linen Co.. Richard 
Horden Mill Co.. and Fall River Na- 
tional Bank, the Fall River Iron Works, 
.Mount Hope Mill Co., president of the 
Bay Slate Steaml)oat Com|>any, Providence 
l(K)l Co., Cape Cod Railroad Co., the Bor- 
den Mining Co. of Frostburg, Md., and many 
other corporations and institutions. His 
was indeed a busy and eventful life, well 
spent, and certainly an Incentive for the 
rising youth of our progressive city. The 
citizens of Fall River owe him a debt of 
gratitude for the pre.seut ailinlrable sys- 
tem of railroail transportation between 
Fall River. Boston and New York. II was 
he who pushed the railroad busluoss and 



i64 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



through his efforts that the present system 
we enjoy became a reality. It would lake 
a large volume to tell you all about Col. 
Borden and what he accomplished for his 
tellow citizens, but enough has been told 
to show that he was one of the really great 
men of Fall River, and we only wish we 
had the space to devote to this remarkable 
man of affairs. He was the hea:l and from 
of everything of worth, and in 1812 joined 
the local militia company as a private, and 
was promoted while in his minority. He 
was first commissioned ensign in a com- 
pany of the Second Regiment of Infantry 
July 30, 1814. In 1815 he was commission- 
ed lieutenant in the same regiment. He 
received his first commission as captain 
April 11, 181S, and his second commission 
May 2, 1822. and both in the Fifth Regiment 
of Infantry, He was made lieutenant-col- 
onel of the same regiment June 28, r82r,, 
and colonel March 12, 1828. After his pro- 
motion he retired from service. His in- 
terest in the soldiers is illustrated in the 
soldiers' monument and burial-place whioh 
was given by him at the entrance to Oak 
Grove Cemetery and the Richard Borden 
Post of the Grand Army of the Republic. 
Col. Borden passed away February 25, 1874. 
esteemed and loved by all who knew him. 

HON. JOHN SUMMERFIELD BR.WTON 
was perhaps the chief financial and indus- 
trial fulcrum on which Fall River raised it- 
self from an obscure factory village to the 
proud position of America's foremost textile 
centre. For over forty years he wielded, 
personally, the power of the community's 
greatest financial resource, yet always with 
a view to advancing the community's pros- 
perity and advancement. He was modest, re- 
tiring, generous and public spirited and 
never desired greater laurels than those 
which usually fall to the faithful public ser- 
vant, whose duly has been well performed. 
Since that day, in 10.43, when its founder, 
Francis Drayton, came from England, and 
settled in Portsmouth, R. I., the Brayt!)n 
family, to which John Summerfield Bray- 
ton belonged, has been prominent in the up- 
building of the country contiguous to N:ir- 
ragansett Bay. In every branch of Ills an- 
cestry he was descended from jjioneer New 
England stock. His grandfather, John Uray- 
ton, was one of the founders of Methodism 
in this section, and In honor of Rev. John 
Sunimerfield. one of the early preachii-; 
that denomination, he was named. John 



Summerfield Brayton was born in Swan- 
sea, directly across the bay from the 
scene of his later labors, on December 3, 
182G. His parents were Israel and Keziah 
(Anthony) Brayton. Raised amid the usual 
environments of the farmer's son he was 
early made acquainted with the virtue of 
hard work. His boyhood was spent on the 
homestead farm and such education as came 
to him was that of the district school, sup- 
plemented later by more advanced courses 
in the public schools of Fall River. By 
close application to personal study in pri- 
vate he fitted himself for the post of teacher 
in the district school, and thus secured the 
means to study further at Pierce Academy, 
Middleboro. By his own efforts Mr. Bray- 
ton fitted for Brown University at the Uni- 
versity Grammar School in Providence, ma- 
triculated at Brown in 1847, and graduated 
in the class of '51 with honors. Adopting 
the profession of law, he studied in the of- 
fice of Thomas Dawe Eliot at New Bedford, 
took a course at the Dane Law School of 
Harvard College, and graduated in 1853. On 
August S of that year he was admitted to 
practice in the bar of Suffolk County. Mr. 
Brayton started practice in Fall River, and 
with such success that within a year he was 
elected city solicitor, the first incumbent of 
the office in the newly-established city. He 
held the position till 1857, when he resigned 
to become clerk of courts for Bristol County, 
to which office he had been elected without 
opposition and with the unanimous endorse- 
ment of the entire bar. In 1SC4 he declined 
renomination and re-entered general prac- 
tice, in partnership with James M. Morton, 
now one of the justices of the Massachu- 
setts Supreme bench. His sister, Mrs. Mary 
B. Young, and B. M. C. Durfee, the iwssessor 
of the largest fortune in Fall River, desired 
his counsel and advice as financial manager, 
and so rapidly did these demands press upon 
his time that in 180S he retired from legal 
practice and took up the active management 
of the estate. He manifested peculiar al)il- 
ilies for his new responsibilities. With rare 
judgment in placing investments, he com- 
liined an aggressive spirit of enterprise which 
made him not only a steadfast conservator 
of private interests, but a piiwor for progress 
in the communily. Having long enjoyed the 
confidence of the people of Fall River, his 
foresight into industvial opi)ortunity and his 
ability to command unlimited means, made 
him the leader in the phenomenal develop- 
ment upon which the city was atxjut to enter. 



-.>' 



^' 



f r* ^) 





7 



166 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



It would be difficult, If not impossible, to 
enumerate the industrial and financial ac- 
tivities of Mr. Brayton. Few enterprises 
have been born in Fall River during his 
time in which he was not more or less prom- 
inently involved. In 18G4 he organized the 
First National Bank, and was its president 
to the time of his death. In 1887 he formed 
the B. M. C. Durfee Safe Deposit and Trust 
Company, and was its president as long as 
he lived. He was one of the incorporators 
of the Durfee Mill in 1805, and from 1872 
was its president. He was for many years 
at the head of numerous large corporations 
in Fall River. At the time of his death 
was president of the American Linen Com- 
pany, the Fall River Manufactory, the Gran- 
ite, Mechanics, Border City and Troy Mills, 
besides being a director in many more. At 
various times he was president of the Fall 
River Machine Company, the Metacomet 
Mills, the Anawan Mills, and the Fall 
River Gas Works, and a director of thf 
American Print Works, and the F'all 
River Iron Works. He was also a di- 
rector of the Old Colony Railroad and the 
Old Colony Steamboat Company. Mr. Bray- 
ton was a man of conservatism, though he 
Lever flinched when his obvious duty de- 
manded courage or even self sacrifice. He 
seldom took rislis till he had applied to the 
prospective step all the force of careful and 
studious consideration. Yet. once deter- 
mined to embark, he never turned back, nor 
lacked courage to push forward. When 
financial reverses left many a strong man 
tottering on the verge of despair and the 
whole community wavered before an im- 
pending calamity, Mr. Brayton never fal- 
tered, but threw into the gap all the force 
he possessed or could command to tide over 
the crisis. Despite the complex responsibil- 
ities of Mr. Brayton's official positions, he al- 
ways found time to assume whatever obliga- 
tions his public spirit imposed upon him. 
In 185G he represented Fall River in the 
General Court, ami served as a member of 
the Governor's Council in 1866, 1867, 1868. 
1879 and 1880, under Governors Bullock, 
Talbot and Long. At home and elsewhere 
he wa.s active In many charitable and phll- 
anthroi)ic movements and generous in his 
donations to their funds. He was one of the 
founders of the Union Hospital, and several 
years Its president. Though of Methodist 
ancestry, his own church affiliations were 
with the First Congregational Society, and 
he made liberal contributions both of his 



means and personal service to its activities. 
Nor were his sympathy and assistance lim- 
ited to the Congregational denomination, 
for numerous churches both in Fall River 
and elsewhere owe much to his liberality in 
the Christian cause. The realm of mere 
money-getting was not Mr. Brayton's only 
world. He was an ardent historian, a patron 
of art and literature and a lover of all that 
beautifies and uplifts. In educational mat- 
ters he manifested a deep concern and when 
his sister gave to the city the magnificent 
B. M. C. Durfee High School, Mr. Brayton 
devoted to its creation and earlier manage- 
ment his best thought, talent and attention. 
In recognition of his notable accomplish- 
mcnts, Brown University, his alma mater, 
conferrc'l on him, in 189;!, the degree of 
Doctor of Laws, and from 1898 till his death 
he was a Fellow of Brown University. For 
eighteen years, from 1882 to 1900, he was 
also a trustee of Amherst College. Mr. Bray- 
ton loved to delve into the traditions and 
facts of local history. His knowledge of the 
Narragansett region probably exceeded that 
of any other student, and it was one of the 
unfulfilled purposes of his life to have writ- 
ten a history of Fall River and vicinity. In 
various historical addresses he has left 
posterity much valuable material, notably in 
addresses at the dedication of the Goff Me- 
morial Hall in Rehoboth, in 1886. and at the 
banquet of the Fall River Sons of Brown 
University in 18SG, the dedication of the 
Swansea Town Hall in 1S9I. and the Centen- 
nial Anniversary of the Somerset M. E. 
Church in 1902. Mr. Brayton was president 
of the Old Colony Historical Society for sev- 
eral years, a member of the New England 
Historic Genealogical Society, a member of 
the Rhode Island Historical Society, and 
since 1898 a member of the Massachusetts 
Historical Society. Mr. Brayton married, 
November 27. 1855, Sarah .lane Tinkham. a 
daii.ghter of Enoch and RiM)ecca (Williams) 
Tinkham, of Middleboro. They had throe 
children, .lohn Summerfield Brayton, .Ir.. of 
Fall River, on whom have devolved some of 
his father's official responsibilities: Mary 
Brayton Nichols, wife of Dr. Charles L. 
Nichols, of Worcester, and Harriet H. Bray- 
ton. of Fall River. Mr. Brayton died at his 
home in Fall River on October SO, 190L He 
was universally respected and is honored 
in cherished memories by all who knew 
him. As n man of large private ro.sjionsibil- 
itios and an active participant in the con- 
(hipi of public affairs. Mr. Brayton was a 





/^^-^^-^ 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



167 



leading tigure in tnis section of the State. 
He had intense interest in and loyalty to 
t.hose with whom he associated through ties 
of ousiness or civic life. In synii>athy only 
with the best traditions and highest ideals, 
he entered in a remarkable degree into the 
successes of his friends a^nd fellow citizens 
in every field of worthy achievement. Their 
nonor was his pride. He delighted to be- 
stow the expression of recognition for work 
well done, and in so doing extended an up- 
lifting influence in the community which we 
can illy afford to lose in these days when 
commercial gain absorbs so much of the 
ambitions of life. 

DAVID ANTHONY BRAYTON, born in 
Swansea, Massachusetts, April 2, 1S24, was 
the fifth of the nine children of Israel and 
Kezia (Antihony) Brayton, and seventh in 
descent from Francis Brayton, who settled 
in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, in 1G43. He 
received his name from his grandfather. 
David Anthony, the youngest of the eleven 
sons of Benjamin, whose father left Rhode 
Island and settled in Swansea. In 1713, Pre- 
served Brayton also purchased land in that 
part of Swansea, now Somerset, which for 
several generations has been known as the 
Brayton Homestead. The greater part of 
David A. Brayton's boyhood days was speuc 
on the Homestead farm, and his education 
was confined within the limits of the dis- 
trict school curriculum and that of the pub- 
lic schools of Fall River. When not at his 
studies he worked at various occupations, 
and in early youth manifested a marked in- 
terest in business developments, which 
caused him to look abroad for wider fields 
of labor and enterprise. After teaching 
school one winter, he made a business trip 
to Cuba, and in 1849, during the gold excite- 
ment, sailed in the ship "Mary Mitchell" for 
California, where he remained several 
months. On his return to Fall River, he 
entered into partnership iwith Mr. Silas Bul- 
lard, and erected at the corner of Central 
and Davol streets the Bri.stol County Flour 
Mills, the fii-st of their kind in this part of 
the State. He also carried on an extensive 
trade with the West Indies in vessels of 
which he was the principal owner. Mr. 
Brayton. with his characteristic foresight, 
realized the possibility of the great growth 
of the cotton industry. Cotton mills were 
already in existence in Fall River, but their 
production did not meet the demand. In 
180,5. he originated the idea of erecting a 



large manufactory, and as a result of his 
business ability and rare judgment, the first 
of the group of Durfee Mills was in full 
operation on January 1, 1807 ; four years 
later, Durfee Mill Number Two was erected; 
in 1880, Number Three was built under his 
supervision, and these mills are a command- 
ing evidence of his enterprise and respon- 
sibility. They were named in memory of 
Bradford Durfee, the father of B. M. C. 
Durfee, the largest stockholder. From the 
time of tlheir incorporation until his death, 
Mr. Brayton was Treasurer and Manager of 
the Durfee Mills, which were for many years 
after his demise one of the largest print 
Cloth plants in the country. Mr. Brayton 
also turned his attention to banking, and in 
1SC5, with his brother, John S. Brayton and 
their associates, established the First Na- 
tionatl Bank of Fall River, one of the first 
to go into operation under the National 
Banking Lajw. His faithful and valuable 
s'-rvices in behalf of this bank were mani- 
fested by the directors wihen they placed on 
record at the time of his death the tribute 
that "To his remarkable foresight, energy, 
and high moral character, this Institution 
owes its origin and its great success." David 
A. Brayton held many offices of responsibil- 
ity and confidence. He was director in the 
Durfee Mills, First National Bank, F'all River 
Iron Works Company, Fall River Gas Works 
Company, Fall River Machine Company, Me- 
lacomet Manufacturing Company. Fall River 
and Providence Steamboat Company, Fall 
River Manufacturers' Mutual Insurance Com- 
pany, and, at the time of his death, was 
President and principal owner in the Arnold 
Print Works of North Adams, Massachu- 
setts. Although deeply interested in ever.v- 
thing that pertained to the welfare and 
growth of the city and keenly alive to the 
duties of a citizen, Mr. Brayton did not 
seek public office, and declined re-election 
after serving one year in the city govern- 
ment. He never lost his fondness for agri- 
cultural pursuits and purchased the large 
farm in Somerset, now known as Brayton 
Point, which he cultivated with pride and 
success. From this he did not anticipate 
remunerative returns, but in its supervision 
he found much pleasure and recreation. Mr. 
Brayton was one of the most regular attend- 
ants and active members of the First Con- 
gregational Church. He gave freely to the 
support of Divine Worship, was generously 
benevolent, and the worthy sought not aid 
from him in vain. He had a sensitive feel- 



168 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



ing of responsibility and accountability 
which helped to sustain the just life of a 
good man. David A. Brayton was married 
May ], 1851, to Nancy It. .lenckes, daughter 
of John and Nancy (lieUows) Jenckes. They 
had live children, Nannie Jenckes, David 
Anthony, John Jenckes, Elizabeth Hitch- 
cock, and Dana Dwight Brayton. During the 
last years of his life Mr. Brayton sufferea 
from a disease brought on by overwork, 
and sought to regain his health in foreign 
lands. He went to Europe in ISSO, accom- 
panied by members of his family, but the 
best of human skill was of no avail, and he 
died in London, England, on the twentieth 
day of August. ISSl. in the iifty-eighth year 
of his age. David Anthony Brayton was a 
man of courage and vigor; accurate, prompt 
in all his dealings, and an acknowledged 
leader of men. He was endowed with ster- 
ling integrity, great business energy, and un- 
intormitlert application. His sagacity and 
undaunted perseverance were appreciated 
by his associates, and his advice and opin- 
ion were often sought by many older in the 
commercial world. His as.sociates have said 
of him, "With large capacity for affairs, 
quick in apprehension, broad in conception, 
prompt and bold in execution, he was a re- 
cognized power and force which accom- 
plished results and challenged respect. To 
these characteristics of mind and tempera- 
ment were added loyalty to conviction, in- 
te.grity, industry, and "unflagging zeal in what- 
ever he undertook." His integrity of life 
sound judgment, and energy of will made him 
successful in business, wise in coimcil, quick 
to discern tJhe true from the false, honorable 
in friendship, prompt to denounce fraud ancV 
deception in all relations of life." 

HON. ROBERT THOMPSON DAVIS first 
saw Fall River from the top of a Boston 
stage coach as he passed through, late one 
afternoon, in 183G, on his way to visit his 
brother, in Tiverton. All the way from his 
home, in Amesbnry, he had pictured in his 
thirteen-year-old imagination the thriving 
little factory village, and the realization of 
nls dreams were gratifying. Little did he 
dream, however, that the future of that vil- 
lage, and his own, would be inseparably 
linked, and as the village grew to a great 
city he would rise to be one of Its most 
distinguished and influential citizens. Dr. 
Davis was born in the province of Ulster, 
North of Ireland. His i)aronts were 
Scotch-Irish, his father a Brosbyterian and 



his mother a birthright Quaker. Years be- 
fore his birth they had come to America, 
had lived several years on Long Island, 
where two children were born, but had then 
returned to the old country to appease the 
home-sickness of the mother. Six months 
later, on August 28, 1823, Robert was born. 
When he was three years of age his parents 
again crossed the ocean and settled in Ames- 
l)ury. where the lad grew up. His father was 
at first an overseer, and later superintend- 
ent of a woollen mill, sufliciently well-to-do 
to give his son a creditable education in 
the Amesbury Academy, and later under 
the direction of private teachers. It was 
during a period of fe&ble health, in his 
thirteenth year, that Robert came to Tiver- 
ton to visit his brother. In a somewhat pro- 
longed stay he made several acquaintances 
which later proved donrinating factors in his 
life and bound nim to Fall River. First of 
all was "Uncle Joe" Durfee. with whom they 
lioardcd, and through whom he came to the 
attention of Dr. Thomas Wilbur, who later 
became his siMnsor in medical practice, and 
eventually his father-in-law. When Robert 
and his brother left Tiverton, it was to con- 
tinue their education at the Friends' School, 
in Providence, though neither graduated. 
When Robert was sixteen. Dr. Wilbur per- 
suaded him to study medicine under his 
guidance and in his office. Then for two 
years he studied at the Tremont street med- 
ical school in Boston, matriculated at Har- 
vard medical school, and graduated in the 
class of 1847. Immediately after grad- 
uation he became resident physician at 
the old Fort Hill Dispensary, in Boston. 
While thus occupied he gaineil valuable ex- 
|)erience in the treatment of the ship fever 
epidemic which was imported from Ii-eland. 
in 1.S17, by immigrants from the famine dis- 
tricts. Upon leaving the dispensary he ac- 
cepted an opening for private practice at 
Waterville, Me., and remained in that town 
nearly three years. In 1S50, Dr. DaA'is lo- 
cated in Pall River permanently. For over 
thirty years he practiced here with notabk' 
success, gaining a reputation which brought 
him one of the Irtgest clienteles in the city. 
As a student of complicated cases and a 
liioneer along advanced professional paths, 
he was a recognized leader. Before he had 
been In Fall River four years he was placed 
In full char.ge of the epidemic of Asiatic 
oludera which raged here several weeks, and 
alone handled nearly a hundred cases of the 
dreaded and generally fatal malady. He was 




Hon. KolNcit T. Da 



J70 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



probably the first physician to suceesstully 
apply nutritive injections as a substitute for 
normal nutritive processes in acute stomach 
trouole. In 1S7;!. when the Slade's ferry 
bridge was under construction, the "caisson 
disease" first occurred in Massachusetts. 
Dr. Davis was placed in Charge of the cases 
by the Old Colony Railroad at the request 
of the president of the Masisachusetts Med- 
ical Society, and made a report embracing 
the history and treatment of the disease to 
the councillors of the society. Dr. Davis has 
been since 1847 r. member of the Massachu- 
setts Medical Society, and was for several 
years one of its councillors. He was for 
many years a member of the National Med- 
ical Association, and the National Public 
Health Association, and since 1S5.I a mem- 
ber of the Bristol County South Medical So- 
ciety, of which he was for two years presi- 
dent. He has also been for many years an 
honorary member of the Harvard Med'cal 
Alumni Association. Despite his large prac- 
tice, Dr. Davis always found time to per- 
form his full duty as a public-spirited citi- 
zen. In 1S51, before he had even become 
a legal voter in Fall River, he made a speech 
at a public meeting of Fall River's citizens, 
which led directly to the adoption of reso- 
lutions instructing the four Fall River repre- 
sentatives in the General Court to vote for 
Charles Sumner for the United States Sen- 
ate, rather than the Whig candidate, Robert 
C. Winthrop. As a result, one of the four, 
N. B. Borden, Changed his vote, and broke 
the deadlock which had tied the election for 
several days. Speaking at a dinner in mem- 
ory of Charles Sumner, in 1.S94, the late 
Senator Hoar, enumerating thirty-one of the 
leading citizens of Massachusttts who had 
taken active part in driving out slavery, men- 
tioned among them Dr. Davis, who is to-day 
the sole survivor of the group. Senator 
Hoar referred to him as the man, "to whose 
speech when a young man, in the Fall River 
town meeting, the instruction was owing 
which decided the great contest when Mr. 
Sumner was elected Senator in IS.Sl." Dr. 
Davis, raised among Quaker influences, par- 
ticularly of such shining lights as the poet 
Whittier, who was an intimate friend of his 
parents, naturally imbiberl that spirit of lib- 
erty which found il« expression in the early 
'50s In the abolition movement. His first 
vote in 1S44, was for .lames G. Birney. the 
Liberty parly's candulale for the Presidency, 
and as the Republican parly came to the 
front. Dr. Davis allied himself with II. and 



has remained loyal to it ail his life. Once 
launched in public affairs. Dr. Davis became 
a prominent factor. In IS.'il he was elected 
a member of the Fall River school com- 
mittee. In 1853 he was one of Fall River's 
four delegates in the Massachusetts consti- 
tutional convention of that year, most of 
whose resolutions were later adopted by the 
Legislature and the people. In the Fall of 
3 858, Dr. Davis was elected to the Massa- 
chusetts Senate and sat in the sessions of 
1859, where he was chairman of the com- 
mittee on charitable institutions and a mem- 
ber of the committee on towns. He was a 
member of the recess committee, which con- 
sidered the report of the commission on the 
revision of the statutes and recommended 
action to the special session of that year. 
Dr. Davis declined re-election at the end of 
his term, in accordance with a promise made 
before election. But in the Fall of ISGO he 
accepted the nomination a.galn. and was 
elected to the Senate of isr.i. He was chair- 
man of the committee on education and a 
ni( niber of the committee of advisers to the 
Governor. It was he who introduced, by re- 
quest of Governor Andrew, the resolution 
for the appointment of peace commissioners 
to attend a convention in Washington in an 
endeavor to preserve peace. He was chair- 
man of the committee on the abolition of 
capital i)unishment, wrote its report and 
drafted the bill which was adopted by the 
Senate but later defeated in the House, the 
nearest Massachusetts ever came to abolish- 
ing the death penalty. During the stormy 
discussions attendant upon the adoption of 
the conventional line between Massachusetts 
and Rhode Island, Dr. Davis was the leading 
champion of the commissioners' report and 
succeeded in having it established. He also 
led the Fall River forces who sought unsuc- 
cessfully to prevent the extension of the Old 
Colony Railroad to Newport, fearing that it 
would involve the removal of the New York 
steamboat terminus from this city, whose 
citizens had been instrumental in projecting 
the line, and largely owned It. The ter- 
minal was removed for a time, but shortly 
afterwards returned, when Fall River's ad- 
vantages became evident. During the early 
days of the Civil War. Dr. Davis, regardless 
of his Quaker principles, assisted in the for- 
mation of the Seventh Massachusetts Regi- 
ment, and lntendo<l going to the fror(.t as 
surgeon. Before the command was mus- 
tered, however, he retired in favor of a rela- 
livc of the colonel who had been especially 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



m 



desirous of securing the appointnu'nt. Early 
in the war Governor Andrew appointed 
Dr. Davis medical examiner of recruits for 
this district, and later examiner of appli- 
cants for exemption from military duly on 
account of physical disability. In this latter 
capacity Dr. Davis did Fall River a valuable 
service by preventing a draft much in ex- 
cess of the city's lesal obligation, through 
securing from Governor Andrew a re-exam- 
ination after the official proceedings had 
closed. Dr. Davis was one of the three Pall 
Kiver surgeons who, in obedience to a call 
from Washin.gton, after the second battle of 
Bull Run, went to Alexandria and assisted 
in treatin.g the wounded. In 1SG3, when the 
State Board of Charities was first created, 
Dr. Davis was appointed by Governor An- 
drew one of the members, but resigned the 
following year, when, on account of ill 
health, he removed to New York. For four 
years thereafter. Dr. Davis was a resident 
of New York City, a member of the W(K)1 
importing firm of Murray & Davis, of which 
his elder brother was the head. Ill health, 
however, prevented the doctor's active par- 
ticipation in the business. In ISCS he re- 
turned to Pall River and resumed his prac- 
tice. Almost immediately Governor Claflin 
again drew him into the public service by 
appointing him a member of the newly-or- 
ganized State Board of Health. When this 
board was merged into the State Board of 
Health. Lunacy and Charity, Dr. Davis was 
made a member of that commission, serving 
till ISSl, when he resigned on accoitnt of 
having taken his stat in Congress. The Mas- 
sachusetts Board of Health is one of the 
most important, if not the most important, 
irfstitution in the history of public sanita- 
tion, being the pioneer State board of health 
in the whole country and a model for all 
others. By its unceasing energy for the 
highest sanitary ideals it long ago won the 
confidence and gratitude of the Common- 
wealth. Dr. Davis has always regarded his 
long membership on the board as perhaps 
his highest honor in public service. During 
Dr. Davis' membership on these boards he 
took a prominent part in their activities, 
especially in the work of reforming abat- 
toir methods in the vicinity of Boston. In 
1879, when Massachusetts and New York 
were engaged in a somewhat strenuous con- 
troversy as to their relative liability for 
alien paupers. Dr. Davis was one of the two 
commissioners on the part of Massachusetts 
at a conference in New York in which an 



effort was made to adjust the differences. 
It was during his service on this toard that 
the famous controversy occurred between 
the board and Governor Butler. In ].S7;5, 
when Fall River was facing the problems of 
her most sensational development, and all 
parties united in seeking- wise counsels 
Davis was nominated for Mayor, and elected, 
the only Mayor in the city's history elected 
without opposition. His term of office was 
marked by singular harmony, despite the 
fact that many radical improvements were 
accomplished at that time, in recognition 
that the city was destined to become far 
greater than had ever before been dreamed. 
Pleasant and North Main streets were both 
widened for almost two miles, Columbia 
street was also widened, and several other 
main thoroughfares were widened or relo- 
cated in accordance with their future needs. 
The city's water works, already under con- 
struction, were finished and made ready for 
the general distribution of water. Phineas 
Ball, the eminent drainage engineer, was 
retained, and planned the city's present ex- 
cellent and adequate sewerage system. 
Three engine houses, three ixilice stations, 
and three school houses were authorized in 
that year. The new City Hall, reconstructed 
from the old town market, was completed 
and dedicated with appropriate ceremonies. 
Free text books were introduced in the pub- 
lic schools. Fall River being the first city 
to adopt the statute permitting such an ex- 
penditure of the public funds, an action 
taken in accordance with a recommendation 
of the Mayor. At the close of his term. Dr. 
Davis, in accordance with an early avowed 
determination, declined a renomination and 
Qonated his salary to the Children's Home. 
As early as 1868, Dr. Davis was mentioned 
as a candidate for Congress, but discouraged 
the suggestion. In 1874 he was one of four 
candidates, however, and stood second in 
the convention which nominated Hon. Wil- 
liam W. Crapo. Mr. Crapo served fotir 
terms, and in 18S2, when he retired and ran 
for Governor, Dr. Da\is was nominated by 
unanimous consent. He was elected by a 
large majority, and was twice afterward 
re-elected, serving in the Forty-eighth, Forty- 
ninth and Fiftieth Congresses. In Congress. 
Dr. Davis was one of the most energetic 
m< ml)ers ever sent from this district, not 
only in the interests of his district, but as 
a promoter of National interests. He suc- 
ceeded Hon. .John D. I^ng as the New Ens 
land member of the committep on commerce. 



J72 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



and was a member of the committee on ex- 
penditures in the navy department during 
the early days of the creation of the new 
navy. It was Dr. Davis who first introduced 
into Congress a resolution favoring a con- 
stitutional amendment to permit Congress 
to regulate the hours of labor throughout 
the country. He has subsequently become 
of the opinion that such a regulation would 
be constitutional without amendment, and 
has for several years been an ardent advo- 
cate of the passage of a federal statute, urg- 
ing it publicly before a conference of labor 
leaders and manufacturers and at a hearing 
before the National labor, commissioners. 
He made a stirring speech on the needs of 
tiie life saving service and succeeded, in 
the face of strong opposition from the chair- 
man and others of his own committee, in 
securing an appropriation for sixteen more 
life saving stations at a time when there 
were aln.idy twenty provided for but not 
l)uiU. lie i-uccci'ilc 1 in having a medical 
ooniniissionor ai)poiute(l to investigate the 
proposition to combat yellow fever by innoc- 
ulation. and thereby prevented the commit- 
ment of the government to a fallacious 
theory. When President Cleveland was im- 
portuning Congress for more power to enable 
him to deal more efficiently with Canada 
in the fisheries disputes. Dr. Davis made one 
ot the most interesting siweches of the ses- 
sion in favor of a more aggressive use of 
the powers the President already enjoyed. 
He made a strong speech in reference to 
the French spoliation claims. For his own 
district he secured numerous lighthouses, a 
new lightship for Nantucket .great round 
shoal, a tele.graph cable between Nantucket 
and the mainland, a new post-offlce for New 
Bedford, an appropriation for a marine hos- 
pital at Vineyard Haven, a refuge station tor 
the Arctic whalemen at Point Barrow, Al- 
aska, jetties for the harbor of Vineyard 
Haven and pension bills galore for deserv- 
ing veterans and their widows. During his 
Congressional terms he introduced 103 bills 
and resolutions, made 33 reix)rts, delivered 
17 speeches on the lloor and secured appro- 
priations aggregating $4.'J!»,non. Some of his 
speeches, especially on the life saving ser- 
vice and the Canadian fisheries, attracted 
National attention. Dr. Davis declined a 
renomlnatlon for Congress in 1888. Immedi- 
ately on his return to Massachusetts, Gov- 
ernor Amos made him a member of the 
newly created Motroijoiilan Sewerage Com- 
mission, on which ho served for three years. 



Dr. Davis enjoys the unusual distinction of 
having been a delegate to three presidential 
conventions, all of whose candidates were 
elected. In ISfid he was a delegate to the 
Republican convention at Chicago, and 
though with the rest of the Massachusetts 
delegates, he at first favored the nomination 
of William H. Seward, he eventually vote<l 
for the nomination of Abraham Lincoln. In 
1.S7G he was a delegate to the Cincinnati 
convention which nominate.! Rutherford B. 
Hayes. In 1904 he was a delegate to the 
Chicago convention which nominated Theo- 
dore Roosevelt. At this convention, his Mas- 
sachusetts colleagues presented him a hand- 
some gold-headed cane in recognition of his 
veteran Republicanism. Dr. Davis has been 
as much a leader in Fall River's industrial 
life as in politics. He has always enter- 
tained an abiding faith in the city and its 
great industry which he never hesitated to 
maintain with his means and even a liberal 
exercise of his credit. His purse has always 
been open to the development of new enter- 
prises and his operations have generally 
been successful. There have been times 
when prospects looked dark, but Dr. Davis 
never wavered in his courage and has been 
rewarded by ultimate success on the part 
of his ventures. Large as Dr. Davis' medi- 
cal practice was, it was only indirectly the 
basis of his fortune. Contemporaries testify 
freely of his liberality in treating the sick, 
and declare truly that he never enforced the 
payment of a doctor's bill; among the de- 
servin.g poor seldom presenting any. It was 
his investments which enabled him to retire 
from active practice while yet in his prime. 
In 1S70, Dr. Davis purchased the "Scotch 
Hole," a tract of some thirty or forty acres 
in the eastern part of the city, largely lying 
under the waters of Watuppa Pond. Men 
laughed at him and predicted his downfall 
for having invested ?1 2,000 in such a worth- 
less swamp. Yet the doctor had faith that 
Fall River would grow and that his land 
would be in demand. To-day no less than 
four great cotton mills are located on it, the 
Parker. Barnaby, Arkwright and Davis mills. 
With others he made similar fortunate pur- 
chases of land in the eastern and southern 
portions of the city, and such establishments 
as the Wampanoag, Flint, Laurel Lake and 
Kerr Thread mills, the Globe Yarn mill, the 
Algonquin Print works, and the Marshall 
hat factory stand to-day on land, the avail- 
ability of which they foresaw and secure<l. 
Whenever Dr. Davis sold mill sites, he never 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



173 



accepted cash in payment, prelei-ring to ac- 
cept stock in the new corporations and trust 
the future for returns. Generally he sub- 
scribed in cash for stock in such mills in 
addition to the vaiue of his land. He never 
hesitated to borrow large sums to assist the 
flotation of new enterprises in which he 
had faith. Before he realized it, he had be- 
come one of the city's largtst investors in 
manufacturing properties. At the present 
time Dr. Davis is president of the Stafford 
and Wampanoag corporations, a director in 
tne Merchants' and Stevens' mills and a 
stockholder in those and the Luther and 
Davis mills. He is also president of the Al- 
gonquin Print Works. Despite his associa- 
tion with mill management. Dr. Davis has 
always been an -inflexible champion of the 
rights of the operatives. He has opposed 
cut-downs, and by his personal efforts has 
prevented more than one such compact 
among the treasurers. The only voluntary 
advances in wages made in this city with- 
out any demand from the operatives, were 
voted on his motion in the Manufacturers' 
Association on . two occasions. When the 
first attempt was made to limit the legal 
working day to ten hours. Dr. Davis actively 
advocated the passage of the law. Again, 
w.ien the legal week was reduced from sixty 
to fifty-eight hours, it was his personal in- 
fluence which prevented the contemplated 
reduction in day pay. Dr. Davis has always 
been active in social and business circles. 
Ho was one of the founders and the first 
president of the Commercial Club, which 
later was changed to the Quequechan Club, 
of which he is still a member. He was for 
many years a member of the Homo Market 
Club, of Boston, and was its president in 
1904 and 1905, .two of its most influential 
years. He was one of those who in 1871 
pledged the city to a donation of $20,000 
for the relief of Mississippi flood sufferers. 
He was for many years a member of the 
Union League Club, of New York. In the 
days of the Fall River Board of Trade, he 
was its president for several years. He 
was one of the early founders of the Union 
Hospital, served several years as its presi- 
dent and is still one of its trustees. He es- 
tablished the Davis Prize Fund as an incen- 
tive to public school pupils in their studies, 
and is deeply interested in educational activ- 
ities of the city. Dr. Davis has always been 
in demand as a public speaker. While in 
the Serate, in 1859, he achieved no little 
reputation from his address in Tremont Tem- 



ple bfcfore an audience of 5,000 people, me- 
moralizing the virtues of John Brown, on the 
evening following the execution of the la- 
nious abolitionist. The address, as printed 
in Garrison's historic "Liberator," shows 
how clearly Dr. Davis grasped the trend of 
public affairs, and how forcibly he could dis- 
cuss the issues of the impending struggle. 
He delivered an address on the occasion of 
the dedication of the Fall River City Hall. 
He was the orator on Fall River's first Me- 
morial Day observance in ISGS. In 1880, 
when the centennial of the adoption of the 
Constitution of Massachusetts was observed 
by the public school children of the city. 
Dr. Davis delivered the address. He deliv- 
ered an address before the Grand Army, 
memorializing General Sherman and Ad- 
miral Porter. On July 4. 1888, he was the 
orator at the unveiling, in Amesbury, of a 
monument to Josiah Bartlett, one of the 
signers of the Declaration of Independence. 
During the National Repulilican convention 
at Chicago, in 1904, he was one of the speak- 
ers at the banquet of the Chicago New Eng- 
land Society. Dr. Davis was twice married. 
His first wife was Sarah, daughter of Dr. 
Thomas Wilbur. They were married on 
October 1, 1848, and six years later she 
died. A son, born of the union, died in in- 
fancy. In 18C2, Dr. Davis married Susan A. 
Haight, of Newcastle, N. Y. She died in 
1900, leaving one son. Robert C. Davis, a 
graduate of Harvard, and now practicing 
law in this city, as a member of the firm of 
Jackson, Slade & Borden. 

HON. JOHN T. COUGHLIN.— From er- 
rand boy in a newspaper office, hill boy in 
the days of horse cars, and car driver at 
17, to be Mayor of the city of his birth, 
is the interesting record of John T. Coiigh- 
lin. Mayor of Fall River. He worked "out 
his own salvation" by dint of grit, determi- 
nation, ambition and manhood until he has 
been acclaimed as one of the very best 
executives in the history of the city, sur- 
prising his best friends and confounding 
I he prophets of evil who arose during the 
campaign which culminated in his triumiih 
against a jiolitical sentiment adverse to 
Democratic candidacies ordinarily. The 
multifarious duties have been discharged 
and the weighty responslljilities of the 
mayoralty have been borne with an intelli- 
gence and efflciency that have made an 
impress upon the imbllc mind that is ex- 
ceptional, and have stamped the adnilnistra- 



m 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



tion as one of economical deeds and fruitful 
results. John T. Coughlin is a son of 
Thomas and Margaret (Foley) Coughlin, 
who loft Ireland in the early fifties and chose 
Pall River as the place of their new home 
in the new world. He was born the first 
day of .January, 1.S73. He gave early evi- 
dence of the largeness oi intellect by which 
his professional and public careers have 
been measured. Family necessities obliged 
him to complete his career as a schoolboy 
in iiis 14th year. His first employment was 
as errand boy in the "Herald" office. He 
found the life too irksome, and so he pro- 
ceeded to gratify his love of horses by be- 
coming a hill boy for the Globe Street Rail- 
v/ay Company. While he was so engaged 
he won friends who have stood by .him 
since in law and politics. At 17 the youth 
was made a driver, the youngest ever to 
hold the reins in the company's employ, just 
as he is one of the youngest to occupy the 
mayoralty chair. Promotion stimulated 
his ambition to advance and fostered 
his aspiration to be a lawyer. As a 
preliminary preparation the young man 
attended a business school and profited 
by the time he gave to study. Then 
followed eighteen months of careful delving 
among the books in the law oflicc of Hugo 
A. Dubuque, under whose careful instruc- 
tion and watchfulness the student qualified 
for admission to the Boston University. He 
studied hard, was regular in his attendance 
at the lectures, and displayed the aptittule 
which is an essential for success in the legal 
profession. He was graduated in 1900, anrl 
in Septt-mber of the same year was ad- 
mitted to the Massachusetts bar. nuring 
his law school days he became interested 
In the welfare of the railway men of this 
city and elsewhere in the State, and the 
time between graduation and the beginning 
of practice was spent in organizing them 
on a conservative basis. In appreciation 
of his efforts and in recognition of his old 
association with them as an employee, Mr. 
Coughlin was elected the llrst president of 
the locaJ branch. He was responsible for 
the formation of a Stale alliance of the 
various locals, and as the h<ad of the hody 
lie was Instrumental in obtaining an In- 
crease in wages and Improvement In ser- 
vice conditions for all the employees of the 
noston & Northern and Old Colony systems 
His Influence was felt In the negotiations 
carried on in the spring of 1!)0fi for further 
concessions. Before the .voung man was of 



aie he was interested in politics. That in- 
terest broadened with age and experience, 
until he came to be recognized as one of 
the leading men in the Democratic party in 
Massachusetts. His first trial as a candi- 
date for an elective office took place in the 
fall of 19U1, when he accepted the nomina- 
tion for the Senate despite an unpromising 
outlook from a Democratic viewpoint. There 
was vigor in the campaign that was waged, 
and Republican control of the district was 
retained by a greatly reduced majority. 
Subsequently Mr. Coughlin 'was chosen 
chairman of the city committee of the Dem- 
ocratic party. He proved to be a harmonizer 
as well as an efficient manager. In 190 i. 
notwithstanding that the Republicans had 
met with unvarying success in municipal 
elections for about a decade, there were 
three aspirants for the Democraiic nomina- 
tion for Mayor. After a spirited contest at 
the caucuses, the subject of this sketch oB- 
tained a majority of the votes. In ihe few 
weeks intervening before the election, he 
showed his ability as a campaigner and 
speaker in a manner to arouse the respect 
and win the good opinion of the opposition. 
Although respectful in his language in deal- 
ing with the record which hal bee J sub- 
mitted to the citizens for judgmeu', he dealt 
with the issues unsparingly. The result was 
that he was the winner of public confidence 
by a substantial vote over that of his Re- 
publican competitor. Mayor Cou.ghlin began 
well, and has continued well. Oftensiv.^ par- 
tisanship was eschewed from the first, for 
the Mayor recognized that his success was 
in many respects non-partisan. His inaugu- 
ral message appealed to the Aldermen and 
the citizens, and his selections for the ap- 
pointive offices were of a high character. 
Fall River was in the throes of the greatest 
strike in its history at the beginning of 
190,5. A problem was presented that would 
have dismayed a less aggressive exeoutixo. 
Mayor Coughlin perceived the need of at- 
tempting to compose the difflcul'y, which 
hail continued from .luly, 1904, and his ef- 
forts were directed to that end. Conferences 
with Oovernor W. A. Douglas resulted in 
such intervention that a common ground 
was reached between capital an 1 labor, and 
the operatives returned to ihe factories 
The same energy was brought into requisi- 
tion in dealing with other matt9;'s of seriT.is 
import. For years the muniaipality paid 
for the removal of snow plle.l up by the 
plows of the railway company. Throui-'h 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



J75 



Mayor Coughlin's insistence an asreemeut 
was entered into for a division of the cost. 
In his first message he advocated special 
provision for the care and treatment of 
tuberculous charges of the city. The Alder- 
men were impressed by the force of the 
reasoning, and appropriated the n.oney for 
shacks such as are maintain-i.t in other 
places where consumption is treated scien- 
tiflcally. On receipt of news of (he San 
Francisco catastrophe, the Mayor called to- 
gether several citizens, and steps were taken 
for the raising of a fund, with commendable 
results. If he has had a hobby ■: is ihat 
of improved streets. By 'persistently riding 
it with the superintendent of the higjiway 
department, he wrought a much needed 
change in conditions. As it has been with 
the highways, so it has been with otiiei* 
departments — unflagging inKM-est has been 
taken and every endeavor divec:e:l to con- 
serving the well-being of the municipality 
governmentally and industrially His useful- 
ness in this respect found forcible and no- 
table expression during the wage agitation 
that developed in October, 1005. Mayor 
Coughlin rushed into the breach when all 
(he portents indicated a renewal of the bit- 
ter warfare which had terminated in Jan- 
uary, got the two factors to deliberate, niul 
had the ineffable satisfaction of seeing them 
adopt an agreement out of which was 
evolved the sliding scale. Public estimate 
of the young executive is well reflected in 
an editorial in the Fall River "Herald" 
which appeared after the completion of the 
first lialf of his term. "Upon the whole," 
said the article, "he has given the city a 
conservative administration, and his friends 
have reason to look upon it with a large 
measure of satisfaction, larger, it is sus- 
pected, than some of them anticipated a 
year ago. He has shown a disposition to 
listen to councils, and has not undertaken 
radical policies of any sort." He is unmar- 
ried, and is a member of the household of 
Captain Patrick H. Doherty, of the police 
department, who is his brother-in-law. The 
Mayor has a finely selected lil)rary. and in 
his books he finds relaxadon from official 
and professional cares. 

HON. NATHANIEL BRICGS BORDEN.— 
For many years the name of Horden has 
been prominenf In Fall River, and to-day 
the descendants of that famous name live 
up to the high standards sot by the early 
memibers of the family. The suliject of this 



sketch was among the early cotton men of 
Massachusetts, and helped among others to 
bring that industry to its present state of 
perfection. He was born April 15, 1801, in 
Freetown, now Fall River. Simeon Borden, 
his father, was also born in Freetown in 
1759 and continued to reside there until 
180G, when he removed to Tiverton, R. I., 
w.here he died November 27, 1811. The 
Borden family have been greai cotton manu- 
facturers, and Simeon Borden was one of 
the first to embark in that business. Our 
subject was only five years of age when 
his father removed to Tiverton, and his 
youth was spent on the farm. He was edu- 
cated at the Plainfield Academy in Con- 
necticut. The young man was a great stu- 
dent and reader and paid particular atten- 
tion to the works on good government and 
speeches of great statesmen, ancient and 
modern. Mr. Borden began the early pur- 
chase of mil! sites and the adjoining lands 
near Tiverton. He bought the lands. Includ- 
ing the falls west of Main street, where the 
Granite block and the Pocasset Mills now 
stand. He was one of the organizers of 
the Pocasset Mills, and the company made 
a business encouraging and assisting young 
and struggling manufacturers. Fall River 
needs men like him to-day badly. In 1825 
the Satinet Mill was built, and in I82C a 
stone building was erected on the site of 
the old engine room of the Pocasset Mill, 
where the old Quequechan Mill formerly 
stood. Then followed the liullding of the 
Massasoit, which is known as the Waluppa 
Holder Borden was at that time one of the 
leading manufacturers, and all these mills 
were leased to him for a long period. In 
this way the company which was formed by 
Mr. Borden, our subject, really began (he 
early cotton business in this vicinity. Mr. 
Borden was a great business man and was 
continuously engaged in building factories, 
dwellings and business houses for many 
years. In 1834 he was elected to Congress 
and has the distinction of being the first 
citizen of Fall River ever chosen for that 
high office. In 1S3C he was re-elected to 
the Twenty-fifth Congress by a large ma 
jority. After several years of retirement 
Mr. Borden was again chosen by his many 
friends as their choice for Congress and 
was elected once more to the Twenty-sev- 
enth Congress. He declined re-election. In 
1.SJ7 Mr. Borden was chosen president of 
(ho Fall River Railroad. He was connected 
with the Fall River steamboat line to New 




Hon. Natlun.cl BnuRs Bordc 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



York, which was established about the time 
he was president of the Fall River Railroad. 
Mr. Borden was a member of the Legisla- 
ture and in 1S5G he was the people's choice 
for Mayor during the trying times of 185G 
and ISoT. He was a good executive and one 
of the best Mayors the city ever had. Many 
improvements and public utilities weft be- 
gun and some of them finished under his 
watchful eye. Mr. Borden was Alderman 
from 1,S59 up to the time of his death in 
1S(J5. He was president of the Fall River 
Bank, which position he held at the time 
of this demise. He was married four times, 
and by his first wife he had five children. 
His second wife was Louisa Gray, whom he 
married December 10. 1840. On February 
12. 1S43. he married his third wife, Sarah 
G. Buffum. By this marriage he had one 
son. His fourth wife was Lyda A. Slade, 
of Somerset. Mass. She was the widow 
of John Wilbur, of Fall River, whom he 
married in March, 1S55. 

JONATHAN THAYER LINCOLN.— For 
over halt a century the name of Kilburn 
& Lincoln has been prominent in the busi- 
ness affairs of Fall River. The success of 
the business is largely due to the efforts of 
Jonathan T. Lincoln, one of the founders of 
the house. Mr. Lincoln was a member of 
one of the Taunton families of Lincolns, 
whose ancestors were among the first set- 
tlers of Bristol County. He was a son of 
Caleb ani Mercy (Thayer) Lincoln and was 
born in Taunton October 17, 1S05. Their 
other children were Nellie, born 1788 and 
died 1805; Nancy, born 1789, died 1874; 
William, born 1790, died 1822; Betsey, born 
1792, died 1882; Hannah, born 1793, died 
1S74; Leontine, born 179G, died 1820; Maria, 
born 1798, died 1822; Narcissa, born 1800, 
died 1827; Cale^b Martin, born 1802, died 
1835; Lorenzo, born 1803, ami Mercy Era- 
nieline, 1810. Caleb Lincoln was a farmer 
anil a miller, living on a farm in what was 
then linown as Westville, Taunton, which 
had been in the possession of his family 
since their settlement in 1G52. He was a 
soldier of the Revolutionary War. Caleb's 
father was William Lincoln, who married 
Hannah Wade. Their children — Zilphy, 
Sally, Lurana, Rebecca, Deborah and Caleb. 
W'illlam's father was Thomas Lincoln, who 
marri(Hl Rebecca Walker; their children — 
William. Silas. Nathan and Tabitha. The 
fMMiily came to Taunlon from Hing- 
ham. It is an interesting fact that nearly 



all the Lincoln families In the United 
States trace with more or less directness, 
their first settlement to Hingham. Hon. 
Solomon Lincoln, in a monograph of the 
Lincoln families of Massachusetts, claims 
that all the Lincolns in that Stale are de- 
scendants of the Lincolns who settled in 
Hingham in 1G3G — 1G38. He says: "We 
have evidence of authentic records that the 
early settlers of Hingham of the name of 
Lincoln were four, bearing the name of 
Thomas, distinguished from each other by 
their occupations, as miller, weaver, cooper, 
and husbandman. Stephen, brother of the 
husbandman; David and Samuel, brothers 
of the weaver." He adds: "Our claim is 
that the early settlers of Hingham, above 
enumerated, were the progenitors of all the 
Lincolns of this country." From Hingham 
the Lincolns trace their early home to Nor- 
folk, England. Jonathan T. Lincoln re- 
ceived his early education at the Westville 
public schools and at the private school 
of Rev. Alvin Cobb. He went to work for 
his brother William, who, with a cousin. 
Benjamin Lincoln, had begun the business 
of spinning cotton in what was called the 
Shovel-Cake Factory at Westville. At the 
age of 18 he was apprenticed to David Per- 
ry, who owned a machine shop on the White 
Birch stream in Dighton. He learned the 
machinists' trade, which had been his choice 
from boyhood. After his apprenticeship ex- 
pired, at the age of 21, with a new suit of 
clothes and fifty dollars in money, the usual 
payment to apprentice boys in those days, 
he left Taunton for Pawtucket, where he 
found employment at the machine shop of 
David Wilkinson, where he worked for about 
three years. He next removed to Taunlon. 
where he lived about a year. He came to 
Fall River in 1S29 and in 1831 was em- 
ployed as a master mechanic by the Massa- 
soil Mill Co. In 1845-4G the Massasolt 
company removed its machinery to its new 
mill on Davol street. The Waluppa decided 
to fill its mill with improved machinery for 
the manufacture of cotton goods, and en- 
gaged Mr. Lincoln to build a part of the 
looms, which he did in the niaohine shop 
of the mill. The job of looms was divided 
into three parts. Mr. Lincoln had a( firs! a 
third, and Mr. John Kilburn a lliird. with 
the understanding wilh the company that 
the one who completed his part first should 
have the remaining third to make. Mr. 
Lincoln was the successful competitor, and, 
therefore, made two-uiirds of the looms. The 




Joiuthan Th.iycr Lincoln 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



17) 



style of the loom was known as the "Pall 
River loom." In 1844 John Kilburn, a native 
of New Hampshire, began in Fall River the 
manufacture of cotton looms and the Four- 
neyron turbine, the latter a French inven- 
tion which was being introduced into the 
New England mills as a water-motor. He 
had been in business but a short time when 
his health failed, and he died in 184G. Short- 
ly after his death a co-partnership was form- 
ed, comprising his widow, his brother. Elijah 
C, and Mr. Lincoln, which succeeded to 
the business he had been engaged in estab- 
lishing. The firm, which was called E. C. 
Kilburn & Co., manufactured turbines, shaft- 
ing and various Ijinds of machinery for print 
works and iron mills. Mr. Kilburn had 
charge of the office work and Mr. Lincoln, 
the mechanical. The business flourished 
and the firm continued until 1856, when a 
new firm, Kilburn. Lincoln & Son, was form- 
ed, consisting of Mr. Kilburn, Mr. Lincoln 
and his oldest son, Henry C. Lincoln. The 
younger Mr. Lincoln brought to the busi- 
ness a practical knowledge of mechanics 
and a thorough business training. In 1859 
Mr. Lincoln made an extensive tour through 
tne Southern States, his firm having built 
up a large business throughout that part of 
tue country. In 1807 it was found necessary 
to enlarge their quarters, and they decided 
to add a foundry to their works. To insure 
the new feature being a success, Mr. Charles 
P. Dring, who had been superintendent of 
the Fall River Iron Works Company for 
many years, became associated with them. 
The name was changed to Kill)urn, Lincoln 
& Co. and became incorporated in 18C8. Mr. 
Lincoln's son-in-law, 'Andrew Luscomb, was 
also admitted to the corporation. Mr, IJn- 
coln was elected president and remained so 
until his death. Mr. Kilburn was elected 
treasurer, which position he held until 1872. 
•January, 1869, Mr. Kilburn disposed of the 
larger part of his interest and subsequently 
all of it, to the other members, and in 1872 
he was elected treasurer of the King Philip 
Mills. On his retirement Mr. Lincoln's 
youngest son. Leontine. was elected treas- 
urer. In 1872 additions were made to the 
work with a view to the manufacture of 
looms on a large scale. Since then the com- 
pany has been among the largest of the 
kind in this country. Since Mr. Lincoln's 
death his interest has been held by his 
family. In 1855, Mr. Lincoln became asso- 
ciated with his brother Lorenzo, his nephew 
James M., and his son Edward Lincoln, in 



the business of paper manufacturing at 
North Dighton. The firm was called L. Lin- 
coln & Co. and succeeded to the business 
which was established in 1850 by Mr. Lin- 
coln's brothers, Caleb M. and I»renzo. He 
retired from the firm l)efore his death, his 
son, Edward Lincoln, taking his interest 
therein. Mr. Lincoln had great faith in Fall 
River as a cotton manufacturing centre, and 
was one of the original stockholders in the 
Union Mill, and was interested in other 
corporations, and a director in the Tecumseh 
Mill from the time of its organization. Al- 
though he took a deep interest in Fall River 
and its public affairs he was averse to hold- 
ing office. He never held but one, that a 
member of the Common Council. He was 
one of the oldest members of Mount Hope 
Lodge of Masons of which he was treasurer 
for many years. In politics he was a Free 
Soil Whig, before the formation of the Re- 
publican party, when he became a member 
of that part.v. The Fall River "News" closed 
an editorial notice at the time of his death, 
as follows: "Mr. Lincoln was held in great 
esteem and respect by his fellow citizens. 
He had the reputation of being an ingenious 
and skillful mechanic and a business man 
whose inte.grity was unquestioned. He was 
a worthy and valuable citizen, whose loss 
must be felt." 

LEONTINE LINCOLN, son of Jonathan 
Thayer and Abby (Luscomb) Lincoln, was 
born in Fall River, December 20, 1S4G. Dur- 
ing his boyhood he attended the Fall River 
public schools, and later a private school at 
Providence, R. I. Mr. Lincoln began busi- 
ness at the age of nineteen, when ho entered 
the counting room of Kilburn, Lincoln & 
Son, which firm was incorporated in 1868 as 
Kilburn, Lincoln & Co., of which corporation 
his father was president (later succeeded in 
the presidency by his oldest son, H. C. Lin- 
coln). The concern was then, and still is. 
a large manufacturer of cotton and silk ma- 
chinery. Mr. Lincoln has been in the direc- 
tion of some of the leading manufacturing 
and banking interests of the city, including 
the Seaconnet, Tecumseh, King Philip, Har- 
graves, Parker and Arkwright mills. Bar- 
nard Manufacturing Company. Poabody Man- 
ufacturing Company, Davis Mills and Luther 
Manufacturing Company; also the Massa- 
soit-Pocasset National Bank. He is presi- 
dent of the Seaconnet Mills Corporation, 
president.. Qf the Hargrave Mills, and the 
Parker ViJls, Davis Mills, Luther Manufac- 




Lcontinc Lincoln 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



iSl 



turing Company, Fall River Five Cents Sav- 
ings Bank, and trustee of the Home for Aged 
People. He was president of tfle Second 
National Bank for about twenty years untii 
the expiration of its charter, in 1S72, Mr. 
Lincoln succeeded E. C. Kilburn as treas- 
urer of the Kilbum. Lincoln & Co. Corpora- 
lion, and still retains this connection, which 
now covers a period of thirty-four years. 
Andrew Lusoomb, Mr. Lincoln's broiher-in- 
iaw, succeeded to the presidency of Kilbum, 
Lincoln & Co. upon the death of Henry C. 
Lincoln, in 1SS4, and on the death of Mr. 
Luscomb, in 1903, Mr. Lincoln followed in 
that office. His active interest in the edu- 
cational institutions of Fall River has long 
been manifest, and he has served as a mem- 
ber of the School Committee twenty-four 
years and its chairman sixteen years. He 
is also a member and secretary of the Board 
of Trustees of the B. M. C. Durfee High 
School. He has been a member of the Board 
of Trustees of the Public Library for twent.v- 
eight years, during which time he has served 
as secretary and treasurer of the Board, and 
is now its president. He has been president 
of the Bradford Durfee Textile School since 
its establishment in 1S99. Mr. Lincoln has 
written and spoken on educational, industrial 
and political subjects. He has been a mem- 
ber of the State Board of Charity, formerly 
known as the State Board of Lunacy and 
Charit.v, since 1S94. and has been chairman 
of the Board since 1S9S. He is a member 
of the Old Colony Historical Society and the 
American Librarians' Association: was a 
delegate to the Republican National Con- 
vention in lS9(j. at St. Ixiuis, which nom- 
inated William McKinley to the presidency. 
In 1SS9, Brown University conferred upon 
him the honorary degree. .\. M. He married, 
in May. iStiS. Amelia S.. daughter of John 
Duncan. D. D.. and ^^ary A. (Macowen) Dim- 
can, and their children are Jonathan Thayer 
Lincoln and Leontine Lincoln, ,Tr. 

JERO.ME DWELLY. M. D.. was born in 
Tiverton. R. L, about four and one-half miles 
from the city of Fall River. January '21. 1S23. 
His father. Daniel Dwelly. 2d, was a well 
known and reputable farmer, and was a di- 
rect descendent of Richard Dwelly, who was 
one of the early settlers of Plymouth Col- 
ony, who, about It^Go, settled in Scituaie. 
Mass., having been in some of the neighbor- 
ing towns as early as 1654. He had a grant 
of land from the Plymouth Colony for ser- 
vices rendered in King Philip's War. in 1676. 



His grandson. Joshua Dwelly, a ship carpen- 
ter, removed from Scituate to Swansea, 
Mass,, and in about ITiX', to Tiverton, R. I. 
Richard Dwelly, a grandson of Joshua, em- 
igrated from Tiverton, R. L. to Manlius. N. 
Y.. when his son, Daniel Dwelly. 2d, was 
about eleven years of age, and there the 
family remained, except Daniel, who re- 
turned to Tiverton and married Mary Bor- 
den Slade. formerly of Slade's Ferry, woo 
was Dr. Dwelly's mother. Jerome Dwelly. 
having become lame when quite young, was 
sent to school at Fall River, and subse- 
qaently to Pierce Academy, in Middleboro, 
->;ass.. to fit for collie with the view of be- 
coming a lawyer. He remained there three 
years and then, his health failing, was 
obliged to suspend his studies for two or 
three years, after which his mind became di- 
verted to the study of medicine. He then be- 
came a student in the office of the late Dr. 
Thomas Wilbur, of Fall River, and subse- 
quently entered the office of Dr. William 
E. Townsend. of Boston, son of Dr. Solomon 

D. Townsend. one of the surgeons of the 
Massachusetts General Hospital. While 
there he acted as assistant to Dr. William 

E. Townsend. who was one ot the physicians 
of the Boston Dispensary, and saw a good 
deal of the exhibition of sulphuric ether as 
an anesthetic, which had lately come into 
use at the Massachusetts General Hospital. 
In May. 1S47. while attending an obstetrical 
case of an out-patient of the dispensary, 
under the care of Dr. Townsend. the use of 
instruments became necessary to save the 
patient's life. ESher was administered, and 
the operation, which proved difficult, per- 
formed by Dr. Channing. Professor of Obstet- 
rics in Harvard Medical College. This was 
probably the first case of (he kind in the 
State, and was reported as such by Dr. 
Channing. Dr. Dwelly s»x>n after wrote his 
graduation thesis. "Sulphuric Ether," in 
which he suggested that the inhalation of 
sulphuric ether would prove of great value 
in the reduction of fractures and disloca- 
tions on account of its powerful effects in 
producing muscular relaxation. He was 
graduated an M. D.. .August 25. 1S4T. He 
then returned to Fall River and opened an 
office September 1. 1S47. for the practice of 
medicine and surgery, at the corner of South 
Main and Pocasset streets. T'p to this time 
ether had not been used as an anesthetic in 
Fall River, and very little anywhere outside 
of the hospital. Dr. Dwelly (hen resolved 
to use it on the first suitable occasion, which 




Jerome DwcUy. M. D. 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



IS3 



occurred on November 5, 1X47, in this city. 
A boy had a piece of wood two and one-half 
inches long violently thrust into his back, 
and breaking off, it became deeply and firm- 
ly embedded under the muscles of the spine. 
A deep incision became necessary to dis- 
lodge it. which was made by Dr. Dwelly, 
having first administered ether, and the 
piece of wood removed while the patient was 
unconscious of any pain. Dr. Crary, at that 
time a surgeon of much repute in Fall River, 
was present, and expressed much gatifica- 
tion and surprise at the effects of the ether. 
This was undoubtedly the first use of ether 
in a cutting operation in this part of the 
State. Dr. Dwelly was the first City Physi- 
cian chosen after the inauguration of the 
City Government, and served in this capac- 
ity through the Cholera Epidemic in 1854. 
Soon after the close of the Rebellion he was 
appointed a United States Examining Sur- 
geon for Pensions, which place he held for 
nearly thirty years. He was made Medical 
Examiner on the passage of the Medical Ex- 
aminer's Law of this State, and remained 
as such for fourteen years. He was, for 
about twenty years, a member of the School 
Board of Pall River. He is a memlier of the 
Massachusetts Medical Society and has been 
President of the Bristol County South Med- 
ical Society. Dr. Dwelly was married on the 
18th of October, 1848, to .lanette A. Cook, 
of Fall River, and on October IS, 1898, they 
celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of their 
wedding at a reception of their friends. 
They have had six children, four sons and 
two daughters: Edwin J., Frank H., Arthur 
J., Avis J., Frederick O. and Mary B. Two 
of the sons are not now living. Edwin .1. 
died when a child and Arthur J. at forty- 
two years of age. He has been in contin- 
uous active practice of his profession in this 
city and neighborhood for nearly three score 
years with the exception of two years spent 
in Cyalifornia. from 1849 to 1851. Dr. Dwelly, 
although not a public speaker, is a ready 
and fluent talker and expresses his opinions 
with force and clearness. The charm of his 
conversation and the cheeriness of his man- 
ner always brings hope and encouragement 
to the sick, and has undoubtedly added much 
to his success from the trust and confidence 
piaced in him by his many patients. 

E. T. LEONARD. M. D.— This well known 
physician of the old school was born in 
Gardner. Mass., July 19. 1812. He began 
to study medicine under l>3ctors Perry. Bow- 



ditch, Gould and Wylie. of Boston, and after- 
wards entered the Harvard Medical School, 
graduating in 1836. He came to Fall River 
in 1810. and practiced his profession until 
his death. He was president of the South 
Massachusetts Medical Society for two 
years and vice-president and councilor two 
years. Dr. Leonard attended many of the 
old families and was considered a skilful 
practitioner and one of the most honored of 
Fall River citizens. 

HON. WEAVER OSBORN was born in 
Tiverton. R. I., May 23, 1815, and remained 
on his father's farm until he was eighteen 
years old. He was educated in the public 
schools at the Little West Hill Seminary, at 
South Kingston. R. I. In iss:?. he went to 
Fairhaven, Mass., to learn the blacksmiths' 
trade, which he followed successfully until 
the engrossing cares of heavy cotton mill 
interests caused him to abandon it. In 1^3". 




Hon. Weaver Csborn (Deceased) 

he purchased the blacksmith shop of Na- 
thaniel Pierce, in Tiverton, which he con- 
tinued about eight years. He then spent one 
year in Providence. R. L. and on his return 
to Tiverton, in 1844. associated himself with 
Andrew Robeson for a period of four years. 
In 1848 he resumed business in Tiverton, 
where he remained until his shop was 
burned, in January. lSa5. when he removed 
to Fall River. Mass. In February of that 
year he formed a coparlnership with his 



1S4 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



youngest brolher, James M. Usborii, and 
boiiglil the blacksmith shop of Gideon PacK- 
ard, on Bedford street, which they conducted 
for several years, doing a large machine bus- 
iness. The firm of W. & J. M. Oshorn con- 
tinued until IfiSU, when it was dissolved. In 
IbiSy the firm became interested with others 
in building the Union Mill, which was the 
i.rst cotton mill that was operated by others 
than close corporations. They were subse- 
quently interested in the Granite Mill, the 
.vierchants' Mill, the two Stafford mills ana 
the Slade Mill. Tney were also interested 
in the Osborn mills, the Fall River Bobbin 
mills, the Union Belt Company. Mr. Oslxjrn 
was a ruling spirit in these as well as other 
enterprises. He was the principal founder 
of the Osborn mills, was instrumental in 
erecting the first building, in 1872, and 
served as president and director of the cor- 
poration until his death, which occurred at 
Fall River, February G. 1S94. He was a di- 
rector of the Montaup Mill for several years. 
He was a director and memtterof the Board 
oi Investment of the Pocasset National Banlv 
from its organization in 1854, when it was 
luunvn as Ihe Pocasset Bank, under the laws 
of the Slate, and was president and chair- 
iran of the Board of Investment of that bank 
from 187:5 until his death in 1894. For many 
years prior to his death he was also a trus- 
tee of the Citizens' Savings Bank, of Fall 
River, and of the State Workhouse, at 
Bridgewater and Tewksbury, Mass. In pol- 
itics Mr. Osboi'n was originally a Whig, and 
cast his first vote for Henry Clay, but after 
the Republican party was formed in 18.50, 
he was a staunch supporter of that party, 
lie was for several years a member of the 
Fall River Board of Water Commissioners, 
and al.so took pride in the progress of the 
city. He was elected to represent the town 
of Fall River, R. I., in the Rhode Island State 
Senate, in 1857, 1858 and 1859, and served 
on military and other committees, and was 
a member of the Massachusetts Legislature 
in 18(iS, 1809, 1871, 1S7:5, ISTC and 1877. 
and of the State Senate in 1879. Mr. Osborn 
was a man of great force of character and 
unfailing resources, and in every sense a 
representative and emterprlsing citizen. Mr. 
Osborn was married January 7, 1S.S7, to Pa- 
tience B. Dwelly. daughter of Daniel and 
.Mary (Slade) Dwelly. of Tiverton. R. I. 
Their children were Mary S.. of Fall River: 
Daniel W., who died In his twenty-third year, 
and Thomas F. and Anna Jane, both of whom 
died at the age of nine. Mrs. Osborn was 



Ixirn in Tiverton, May 27, 1817. Both at- 
I ended the Baptist Church, which they joined 
in 1843. 

J. M. Al.DKK'H, M. U., wa.s born in the 
town of Siiiithlield. H. 1., Ociober 'M, 1S17, 
and with his brothers and sisters spent his 
boyhood days on his father s farm. He re- 
ceived his education in the public and pri- 
vate schools, after which he entered the 
Academy at Union Village. Dr. Aldrich was 
a close student of ancient and modern his- 
tory and took high rank among his fellows. 
In 18o9 he entered the office of Ihe infirmary 
of Dr. A. J. Brown, of Providence, and here 
he studied harder than ever. He took a 
course of Harvard Medical College and sub- 
sequently entered the Botanical Medical Col- 
lege, in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he received 
his diploma, and was chosen valedictorian 
of his class. He came to Fall River in 1843, 
and began the practice of his profession, and 
ii.( t with success from the start. He was 
one of the old school of physicians of high 
repute, and his word was as good as his 
bond. He was president of the Massachu- 
setts Eclectic Medical Society, and for four 
years was president of the Temperance So- 
ciety. He was president of the Children's 
Home. In 1852 ihe was elected a member of 
the School Committee and remained for 
n.any years a useful member of that body. 
Dr. Aldrich w-as married May 24. 1844, to 
.Vlary A. Allen, of Dedham, Mass. She died 
December IS, 1857. He was married again 
on September 23, 1SG2, to Louisa G., daugh- 
ter of Hon. Nathaniel B. Borden. They had 
one son and a daughter. The son is now a 
young and prosperous physician of Fall 
River, and considered a painstaking and able 
man. When Dr. Aldrich passed away Fall 
River lost one of its ablest ami useful citi- 
zens and physicians. 

HON. EDWARD PURINGTON BUFFIN- 
TON. — From the inauguration of the Re- 
lu'llion to its close, Mr. Butfinlon was at the 
head of the local government. For years he 
was Mayor of Fall River, and was one of the 
best e.xecutives the city ever had. He was 
a |)lain, simple man of the people, kind and 
considerate to all, and as honest as the day 
was long. He was a son of Aaron and Re- 
becca Buffinton. and was iKirn In Westport, 
.Mass., November 10, ISII. He came to 
Fall River with his parents when a boy and 
loved 4he city, ami was honored as a man 
by its citizens. Early in life he opened a 
market at the corner of .Main and Pocasset 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



185 



streets, where he did a fine business and 
prospered, uniil the erection of the town hall 
and market building in 1S4G, where he re- 
moved, and continued for many years. In 
1S52 he was elected to the Massachusetts 
House of Representatives, and in 1S.54, when 
Fall River changed its form of government 
and became a city, he was elected Alderman. 
In November, 1855, he was chosen Mayor 
to fill the vacancy occasioneii by the resig- 
nation of Hon. James Buflinton. In the fol- 
lowing year he was elected Mayor by the 
i;cople. After three years' retirement he 
was again elected Mayor and held the office 
tor seven years. His administration was a 
successful and happy one, and when he died. 
October 2. 1S71, the entire city mourned 
it 5 loss. His kindly face looks down from 
a beautiful oil painting which hangs on the 
walls of the Mayor's office in the City Hall, 
and many a kind word is expressed by the 
old citizen when he sees it. 

HON. JAMES BUFFINTON.— This distin- 
guished citizen was born on "Chaloner Hill," 
in Troy (now the prosperous city of Fall 
River), Mass., March IG, 1817. His early 
years were spent in study and self-denial, 
yet all through his boyhood and youth his 
promptness in thought, and independence in 
action, were indications of the coming man. 
He attended the Friends' Boarding School 




Hon. James Bullinlon IDcceascd) 

In Providence, R. I., where he advanced ra[i- 
Idly. and after leaving there took up the 
study of medicine with Dr. Thomas Wilbur, 
where he remained but a short time, as he 
did not have sufficient funds to carry on the 
studies. Mr. Buffinton found it necessary 
to accept a position as a preceptor in tJie 
public and private schools of Westport and 
Dartmouth. He associated with men Inter- 



ested in navigation and naturally his minu 
was turned in that direction, and finally 
shipped for a whaling voyage on board of 
the ship "South Carolina," about to sail. 
When he returned home he engaged in the 
drug business, and afterwards the dry goods 
and millinery trades. Ai)oui this time he 
married Miss Sarah Perkins. During the 
years of trade he became popular and be- 
came a member of the fire department, and 
In 1851 was chosen selectman, being re- 
elected in 1852-53. On the adoption of the 
City Charter in 1854, he was elected Mayor, 
and in 1855 was re-elected, and in the 
autumn was chosen by acclamation, and sub- 
sequently elected to Congress by a large ma- 
jority. On his return home from Congress 
in the spring of ISOl, he Immediately set 
to work to raise a company of volunteers. 
In 18G4, Mr. Buffinton, having declined a re- 
nomination for Congress, accepted an office 
In the Internal Revenue Department, ten- 
dered him during President Johnson's adniln- 
Is-tration. In June, 1S7U, he was re-elected 
to Congress, and served two terms, and was 
re-elected for a third term when death cut 
of his useful and busy career. He remained 
in his seat against the wishes of his friends 
until the adjournment of the session, when 
he came home to die in less than one hour 
after receiving a rousing welcome home. He 
died on Simday n-.ornlng, March C, 1874. Mr. 
Buffinton was one of the men who by his 
personal efforts helped to push the name of 
Fall River high up on the roll of successful 
cities of the United States. 

COOK BORDEN, related by ties of blood 
to most of the old families, and one of the 
|)rominent men of affairs of this city, was 
horn In Pall River, Mass., In that portion 
known then as Tiverton. He received his 
education In the public schools and was 
.strictly a self-made man, and rose to the 
prominence which he attained through his 
own individual efforts. His father died when 
he was about eighteen years of age, and he 
bad to hustle for himself. He entered the 
lumber business as a clerk, and being active, 
and a close observer, soon became an ex- 
pert, and after a few years started in for 
himself near Lindsey's Wharf. His business 
grew and prospered, and in IS-lO, bought 
Bowenvllle, ami removed his business there. 
Wi ..am Cogswell, cashier of the old Tiver- 
ton Bank, was his partner for many years. 
When his sons grew to manhood they be- 
came Interested In the business with their 
father, and later became partners. Since 




Robert Kninht Remington (DeccAsco) 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



iS7 



the death of the head of the Hriu the style 
of the house is Cook Borden & Co. Mr. 
Borden was interested in many enterprises 
and held stock in various corporations. His 
son, Jerome Borden, is the present head of 
the firm and one of Fall River's progressive 
business men. Our siibject was president 
of the Union National Bank and a memljer 
of the Board of Investment of the Union 
Savings Bank and a Director in the Chaco, 
Richard Borden and Tecumseh mills. He 
was a pure, good man, and raised a large 
family of useful sons and daughters. He 
died September 20, 1880, in the seventy-fifth 
year of his age. 

ROBERT KNIGHT REMINGTON.— One 
needs not hesitate, at this time and in this 
book, to make full application of the Psalm- 
ist's words to the life of Robert Knight Rem- 
ington, who was born July 12, 1820, and died 
November 25, ifeSG— "Tftou, O ljon\ God, art 
the thing that I long for; Thou art my hope 
even from ray youth. Oh, what great 
troubles and adversities hast Thou showed 
me, and yet didst Thou turn arid refresh 
me." We are but recalling the lesson of a 
life 'Which among the people of this city and 
elsewhere was "known and read of all men," 
of a Christian and churchly character which 
had a deepening influence in this community. 
The individuality and the personality of the 
gentleman herein commemorated were so 
striking and so distinguishing that he occu- 
pied a peculiar place in the regard and es- 
teem of those who knew him. Although of 
strong convictions based on faith, he held 
them with charity; his influence was for 
the common good, and his thoughtfulness 
was always active. Mr. Remington was a 
man who had faith in and unfailing kind- 
ness for people. He believed in men. He 
counted them worth while, and therefore he 
felt it a thing worth doing to give time, 
money, counsel and strength for their moral, 
physical and mental welfare. He was ever 
ready to give his hand to every cause which 
meant the moral upliftment of the city; his 
voice in championship of every enterprise 
of worth, and his cheer to noble enthusi- 
asm. Mr. Remington was a native of the 
old town of Grafton, Mass. His early school- 
ing was obtained in Monson, in the same 
county of Worcester: the finishing touches 
were applied in Kail River after the removal 
of the family, the name of which has ever 
since occupied a high and honorable place 
in business aRd church life. Early in the 



forties Mr. Remington formed a partnership 
wih his brother, Hale, to deal in oils, chem- 
icals, dyestufTs and kindred supplies. They 
started on a small scale, occupying a build- 
ing which stood on the site where the 
"Globe" office now stands. The withdrawal 
oi Hale Remington was followed in 1S4S by 
the association of Robert K. Remington with 
Charles M. Shove Ln the conduct of the 
■business. When other interests claimed the 
attention of Mr. Shove and nece.ssitated a dis- 
solution of partnership, Mr. Remington pro- 
ceeded alone, and laid the foundation of an 
enterprise which is reckoned to-day as the 
largest and most varied of the kind carried 
on in southeastern Massachusetts. Mr. 
Remington was not so engrossed in tem- 
poral affairs as to give no thought to and 
spare no time for the spiritual in life. He 
was one of the pillars of the Central Con- 
gregational Church. Whenever it was pos- 
sible to be present at the services, he was 
to be seen in his pew. His profotsion of 
faith was of the practical sort, and was 
carried into his relations with man. He 
lielieved in the work of the Sunday school 
as building for the future of the church, 
and for years he held the office of super- 
intendent. Toward teachers and pupils Mr. 
Remington stood in the relation of a kind 
and considerate faiher, anxious for their 
spiritual well-being and eager to be of as- 
sistance for personal needs. His enthu- 
siasm and interest were communicated to 
them, and tihe school maintain<Ml a high 
standard for attendance, efficiency and re 
Fults. It was to be expecte;! that when the 
Young Men's Christian Association was 
brought into existence one of those to 
realize immediately its value as an auxiliary 
of the church and school should be R. K 
Remington. He early identified himself 
v.'ith the movement, and gave freely of 
his time and money in the spread of the 
gospel of organization thro\ighout the coun- 
try. Besides being foremost in undertaking 
to establish a local branch, he visited other 
places to explain the scope ami plan of the 
association. There were many discourage- 
ments in the path of the local promoters. 
When finally they managed to find a home 
in a buildiing formerly used as a dwelling, 
the conviction prevailed that failure was 
not probable, for the advantages of mem- 
bership had been urged so eloquently by 
Mr. Remington and his associates In the 
l>oard of management that young men were 
not slow in enrolling. Not long afterwards 




John C MdiK 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



189 



began the movement which culminated in 
the erection of the brick structure in North 
.Main street, in which the Young Men's 
Christian Association is housed. It was em- 
inently fitting that the service of one who 
in the main was responsible for the building 
should be commemorated, and the decision 
of the directors to call the ma;n hall after 
Mr. Remington and to adorn it with an oil 
portrait of the gentleman, a gift from his 
son, Edward B. Remington, elicited the 
heartiest commendation. The artist was 
true to nature. Although Mr. Remington 
was gathered long since to his fathers, one 
who knew him in life feels his genial pres- 
i3nce as he gazes upon the reproduction 
hanging on the wall, and feels that Fall 
River was sorely afflicted when death ended 
so useful a career. Mr. Remington was 
married twice. His first wife. Miss Harriet 
M. Hill, a sister-in-law of Col. Thomas J. 
Borden. She died in 1S4G. In September. 
1S50. he was joined in wedlock with Miss 
Elizabeth A. Thatcher, of Middleboro, the 
daughter of Allen C. and E. P. Thatcher. 
Six children were born — Mary Elizabeth, 
Harriet Thatcher, Annie Lincoln, Alice 
Knight, and Agnes Carleton. All are dead 
with the exception of Miss Alice, who is the 
wife of Warren S. Barker, and Edward B. 
Death came to the father after five days' 
sickness of pneumonia. The disease re- 
sulted from a cold contracted during a visit 
to Keene, N. H., where Mr. Remington went 
in the interest of Y. M. C. A. work. Sorrow 
was general, for the feeling prevailed that 
the community had been deprived of one of 
its best citizens. Mrs. Remington continues 
a resident of Fall River, loved by her chil- 
dren, and admired and respected by all who 
have the honor of her acquaintance. Ed- 
ward B. Remington and Charles F. Borden, 
the latter having been connected with Mr. 
Remington for years, and being familiar 
with every detail of the extensive business, 
acquired the R. K. Remington interest, and 
established a partnership under the firm 
name of Borden & Remington. On the 
death of Mr. Borden, in 190.5. the firm was 
changed into a corporation, of which Ed- 
ward B. Remington became president and 
general manager. His training and experi- 
ence as a partner of Mr. Borden and his 
adaptability to a mercantile career well 
fitted him for the heavy responsibilities that 
devolved upon him. The combination of 
oualities has made him one of the men of 
mark in the business life of Fall River. His 



Interest in the city is practical, though 
not manifested demonstratively nor osten- 
tatiously. 

JOHN C. MILNE was born in Milfleld, 
Scotland, May 1,S, 1824. His parents died 
when he was quite young, and to his grand- 
parents he was indebted for early educa- 
tional opportuniities. With them he emi- 
grated to Pictou, Nova Scotia, and at S 
years of age entered the printing office of 
an uncle, and soon became an accurate and 
rapid compositor. In 1S35 he came to Fall 
River, and worked for three years in the 
calico works of Andrew Robeson. In 1838 
he entered the printing office of the Fall 
River "Patriot," and continued in the mean- 
time to attend evening schools. In 1840 
he spent six months at Pierce Academy. 
Middleboro. After leaving the academy he 
continued his studies with a view to enter- 
ing college. He devoted a portion of each 
day to study, reciting to Rev. Geo. M. Ran- 
dall, afterwards Bishop of Colorado, and 
the remaining hours of the day and eve- 
ning to labor in the printing ofl^ce. Being 
destitute of means, he was forced to aban- 
don his cherished purpose, and in 1845 was 
encouraged to commence the publication 
of the Fall River "Weekly News" with Mr. 
Almy. The first number was issued April 
3, 1845. In 1859 a daily edition of the 
"News" was begun, and both are still pub- 
lished. The difficulties experienced in 
those days when these two young men un- 
dertook the work were laborious and their 
lives self-denying; but by incessant appli- 
cation and rigorous economy they achieved 
success. Mr. Milne was a member of the 
City Council for five years, and a represen- 
tative in the Legislature for five years— 
1884 to 1888. inclusive — serving as House 
Chairman of Banks and Banking and of 
public charitable institutions, of one of 
which he was apiwinted a trustee by Gov. 
Ames. He is president of the Citizens' Sav- 
ings Bank, president of the Osljorn Mills, 
and a director in the Stafford Mills. He 
was one of the original directors of the Po- 
casset Bank, organized in IS.il. and remain- 
ed on the board until the corporation was 
dissolved in 1903 and merged with the Mas- 
sasoit-Pocasset. a period of forty-nine years. 
He liv2d to see all of his associates on the 
first i)oard. and all but one on the second 
board, pass away. He is now serving In 
the directorate of the Massasoit-PocAsset. 
In IS 19 -Mr. Milne was married to Miss Abby 



r 




i 


. 








■^■'^^yl 


^*v 


4 




i^^^k' 


i?l 




^^^^^^^^^^^^^^Et; 




^IW 


pHi 




■'^?1 





Frankim L. Aln 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



191 



A., daughter of George W. and Betsey 
(Rowland) Gifford, of Fall River. Of this 
union nine children were born, five of 
whom are living. They are Mrs. Mary J. 
Fenner, Joseph D. Milne, Mrs. Abby S. 
Carr, Mrs. Jennie D. Remington and Mrs. 
Hannah E. Chadwick. 

FRANKLIN L. ALMY was born in Little 
Comipton, R. I., July 2, 1S33, the son of 
Benjamin and Ruth Alniy, and removed to 
Fall River with his father's family in 1S37. 
His father served in the war of 1S12, and 
was appointed captain of the First Infantry 
of Portsmouth iby Gov. Jones, of Rhode Isl- 
and. At 12 years of age F. L. Almy be- 
came a carrier for the "Weekly News," 
then but a few weeks old, in 18-15, and in 
the following September entered the office 
as an apprentice, becoming a journeyman 
in 1850 and a member of the firm and the 
business manager (which position he still 
retains) in 18G4. On the death of Thomas 
Almy he and John C. Milne purchased the 
latter's interest, and the firm name to-day 
is Almy & Milne, as when the "News" was 
started. He was a member of the Common 
Council dn 18GG-G7, and has been a di- 
rector of the Flint and Wanipanoag Mills, 
and a trustee of the Citizens' Savings Bank 
for many years. He is a man of the .strict- 
est 'honor and a successful and influential 
citizen. He was married in 1862 to Charity 
R., daughter of Israel Buffinton, who die:l in 
May, 188G. They had two sons, Frank S. 
and Thomas, and four daughters. Misses 
Sarah. Nancy, Ida and Nellie Almy. the 
latter passing to the world beyond when 
4 years of age. Mr. Almy's present wife 
was Miss Mary K. Cotton, daughter of John 
S. Coton. a prominent business man of his 
time. 

HON. CHARLES JARVIS HOLMES was 
the son of Charles Jarvis and Louisa Has- 
kell Holmes. His fatber, as was his father 
before him, was a lawyer, a prominent mem- 
ber of the Bristol County bar, and for a 
long time member of the .Massachusetts 
Legislature. Charles Jarvis Holmes was 
born in Rochester, March 4, 1S:M. When 5 
years of age he moved with his parents to 
Taunton, and was !) when he and they re- 
moved to Fall River, where he has since 
resided. He attended the public schools of 
this city, and was a member of the first 
class formed in the Fall River High School, 
graduating in 1853. After leaving school 
he entered the service of the Massasoit 



Bank. When Mr. Holmes was 21 years of 
age he was elected treasurer of the Fall 
River Five Cent Savings Bank, which po- 
sition he held at the time of his death. In 
the same year he was elected cashier of 
the Wamsutta, afterward the Second Na- 
tional Bank, which ijosrtion he held until 
the bank went out of business in 1903. 
For over half a century he has been the 
vt ry capstone of this city's financial struc- 
ture, and those who run back in memory 
over any appreciable portion of his career, 
will agree that he was a historical figure 
in the city's past If for no other reason. 
Mr. Holmes deserves immortalization for 
having saved the city from one of the 
worst financial disasters ever visited upon 
it. As the father of the law known among 
bankers as the Stay Law, he performed a 
public service not to be measured by con- 
temporary minds. Mr. Holmes was one of 
those rare combinations — a man of great 
executive ability, capable of holding posi- 
tions of unnsual responsibility in the finan- 
cial world, yet ready and willing to apply 
his ability and experience to the public ser- 
vice. Mr. Holmes was president of the 
King Philip Mills and until 1903 of the 
Sagamore Manufacturing Company, and a 
director of the Border City Mills. He 
served in the Board of Aldermen in 18S5, 
1SSS-1SS9. He was a member of the school 
committee for sixteen years, during whfcli 
time he exerted a strong influence in the 
eJucational affairs of the city. Mr. Holmes 
was a trustee of the public library for for- 
ty-three years. He was a member of the 
l)oard of overseers of the poor from the time 
of the change made in that body under 
Mayor James F. Jackson, until the time of 
his death. He also served as treasurer of 
the Fall River Hospital for a number of 
years. He was for many years chairman 
ol the Civil Service Commission. He .served 
in the House in 1873, and in the Senate in 
1877-1878. He was chairman of the Com- 
mittee of Associated Savings Banks of the 
State for over thirty years. And when, a 
number of years ago, it was proixised to 
tax the savings banks' deposits for internal 
revenue, Mr. Holmes alone represented 
Massachusetts at the hearing in Washing- 
ton, in protest of the measure. As a 
churchman. Mr. Holmes was always promi- 
nent in the affairs of the Central Congre- 
gational Church, which he joined in 1857. 
and in 1877 he was elected deacon, which 
office he held until his decease. Mr. Holmes' 




Hon. Charles ;.irviE HoImkl 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



193 



position in the community has been that 
of a progressive business man, a respected 
citizen and a co-operator in all movements 
started lor the improvement of the con- 
dition of the people. As banker, alderman, 
member of the city government and of sev- 
eral of its most important subordinate 
boards, of finance, schools, libraries and 
charities, as member of both branches of 
the General Court of Massachusetts, as 
president and director of manufacturing and 
industrial organizations, of charitable and 
social bodies, as officer and leader in 
church and Sunday school there is scarcely 
a life in this city which has not in some 
measure felt the stimulus of his abounding 
energy, his devotion, his ardent faith, his 
higher religious and spiritual nature. Mr. 
Holmes was married May 4, 1S58, to Miss 
Mary A. Remington, daughter of Joshua and 
.Joanna Remington, of Fall River, and their 
children are Mary L.. Anna C, and Charles 
L. Holmes. 

JOSEPH ABRAHAM BUWEN, for half a 
century a prominent coal dealer here, was 
l)orn in Fall River, October 10, 1SS2, the 
son of Abraham and Sarah (Read) Bowen, 
and the descendant of families who had 
been active in this community from its 
earliest settlement. His great-great-grand- 
father, John Bowen, came here about 1739 
and settled in what is now the southern 
part of Fall River, where he was a large 
landowner, with a homestead that is still 
standing, though greatly altered, on South 
Main street, near what was formerly called 
Bowen's hill. He lived to be about loo 
years of age and in his will disposed of a 
large section of the southern part of the 
present city, and provided, as well, for the 
treeing of several slaves. His wife was 
Penelope (Read) Borden, the widow of 
Stephen Borden and the daughter of John 
Read, Jr., an early settler. His son, Nathan, 
saw service in the Revolution, and his 
grandson, Abraham Bowen. Sr., was the 
owner of a farm extending from Bedford 
to Elm streets, and from the harbor to the 
Watuppa Ponds. He was a i)romoter of one 
of the first cotton mills built here, the 
Fall River Manufactory, formerly called 
the White Mill, erected in 1S13, and in the 
absence of banks the funds collected for 
this enterprise were kept in his clock. He 
was town clerk, selectman and probably the 
first representative from Fall River to the 
State I>egislature, where he served four 



terms. U was at his suggestion that the 
name of the town was changed in 1804 from 
Fall River to Troy. Joseph A. Bowen's 
father, a son of the latter, was Abraham 
Bowen, who built the house just south of 
Mr. Bowen's present residence." For many 
years he carried on a printing business and 
he published several papers. Mr. Bowen is 
tihe descen<lent of many old families, in- 
cludmg the Bordeus. Durfees, Reads, Wins- 
lows, Valentines and Tisdales. Mr. Bowen 
was educated in the public and private 
schools of Fall River, and at the age of 8 
years entered his father's printing office, 
alternately working at this trade and at- 
tending school, including the high school, 
which he entered in the first class, until 
185G, when he engaged in the coal business. 
He was located at Morgan's wharf at the 
foot of Walnut street, one-half of which he 
afterwards bought. He also l)ought the 
wharf formerly called Slade's wharf, where 
the business has since been carried on and 
has grown to large proijortions. He has 
had much dredging done at heavy expense, 
at and near his wharves, to increase the 
depth of water, and was the originator of 
the movement to impixjve the harbor of 
Fall River. He is also interested in coast- 
wise navigation, being part owner in sev- 
eral large schooners. Mr. Bowen was a 
member of the Common Council in 1862 and 
1803, and of the Board of Aldermen in 1809 
and 1870. As chairman of the committee to 
consider the advisability of establishing a 
waterworks system, after an analysis of the 
water in the North Watuppa Pond, and in 
various wells, he wrote the report of that 
committee, and, as one of the first Board of 
Water Commissioners, he took an active 
part in the building of the waterworks sys- 
tem. He was also active in urging the early 
completion of the work, and insisted on the 
doing of certain very necessary things which 
the engineers declared impossible. He has 
always resided in Fall River, in the house 
he now occupies, and in the one directly 
south of it. He was marned .lanuary 19. 
1S0.5, to Fanny M., daughter of .lonathau and 
Clarissa (Bennett) Corey, who. like hlni. is 
descended from many of the early settlers 
of New England. They have two children. 
Joseph Henry and Fanny Corey Bowen. The 
family has long been connected with the 
Central Congregational Church. Mr. Bowen 
was for two years president of the Fall 
River Board of Trade, and Is at present a 
director in several cotton manufacturing 





' >^- 

^2^^ 


^^^^Igg^ll^J^J^^f^' 


m^^^^ 


i 



rl, AW.il.am Bo»-<n 



HISTORY OF FALL RTVER 



t95 



corporations. He is one of the most highly 
respected citizens of Kail River, and has 
ever been most active in promoting its in- 
terests. 

NICHOU3 HATHEWAY.— Among the old 
lawyers of Fall River, Nicholis Hatheway 
was prominent. He is a son of Elnathan 
P. and Salome (Cushman) Hatheway, was 
born in Freetown, September 3. 1S24, the 
eldest of seven children. He was educated 
at Piiiilips' Andover Academy and Pierce's 
Academy at Middleborough. He entered 
Brown University in 1843 and was gradu- 
ated in 1S47. Mr. Hatheway took high rank 
as a criminal lawyer. He held various 
offices in his native town and was elected a 
member of the Legislature from Fall River 
in 1875, and was elected an Alderman in 
1ST4 and 1875. Mr. Hatheway is a .sterling 
Democrat and a strong party man, and an 
outspoken advocate of the principles of hit- 
party. He received the nomination for Con- 
gress in the fall of 1882, and received a very 
large vote. He is prominent in Masonic 
circles, is a member of Union Lodge. Dor- 
chester; St. Paul's R. A. C. Boston: Council 
R. and S. M., Boston: Boston Commandery. 
and of the Supreme Grand Council of the 
Northern Jurisdiction of the United States 
and its Dependencies — thirty-three degrees. 
Mr, Hatheway was married January 1, 1851, 
Ic) Fanny P. Dean, of Freet(twn, and has two 
children. Nelson D. Hatheway, M. D., of 
Middlborough, Mass., and Nioholis Hathe- 
way. Jr., a well known and highly esteemed 
attorney of Fall River. Mr. Nicholis Hathe- 
way, Jr., is the present Law Librarian and 
has a large and lucrative law practice in 
Fall River and throughout Bristol County. 
Nicholis Hatheway, Sr.. is still alive, and re- 
sides with his son, Nicholis, Jr.. who has a 
comfortable home on Locust street. 

CHARLES FREDERICK BORDEN.— In 
the career of Charles Frederick Borden we 
find a happy illustration of the saying, "Ev- 
ery man is the architect of his own fortune." 
He made his way in the world. He realized 
in youth that qualities necessary to com- 
mand success must be first possessed, then 
cultivated intelligently, and used assidu- 
ously. How thoroughly and successfully Mr. 
Borden learned and applied the lesson from 
the beginning of his industrious life to the 
hour of his prostration by a fatal sickness, 
cannot lie put into type as fully as it is 
known by those who associated with him. 
It is a story, not particularly of what might 



be called good fortune, but of the fruits 
of character, application, intelligence, thor- 
oughness, service and zeal. His endowment 
ot traits inducing to integrity and probity 
nas been so enlarged by determination, earn- 
estness and instructive association that it 
is not to be wondered at that the aspiration 
of a manly youth was realized and enjoyed 
in the bright summer of life. Mr. Borden was 
born in Fall River the year of the city's in- 
corporation — September 24, 1854. His pa- 
rents were Deacon Joseph Borden and Amy 
Hathaway Borden. The father was one of 
the most respected citizens of his day. For 
several years he managed the city farm; he 
served as a meml)er of the City Council, and 
to the affairs of the Second Baptist Society 
no member was more attentive. Charles F. 
Borden passed through the grammar grade 
of the local schools, and then entered the 
high school. His first engagement as a 
wage-earner was as a bookkeeper for Davis 
Bros. Robert K, Remington soon became in- 
terested in the boy, and an offer of employ- 
ment from that estimaHile gentleman was 
accepted. The confidence of the new em- 
ployer was earned immediately by close and 
faithful attention to the details of office 
work. This secured promotion, for Mr. 
Reniin.gton was an appreciative employer, 
and believed in encouraging his employees 
so as to awaken their interest in the busi- 
ness in all its departments. There was no 
partiality: advancement was the reward of 
merit. Mr. Borden shared constantly in the 
manifestation of Mr. Remington's esteem, 
and in the course of time he was the right- 
hand man of that gentleman, solely through 
constancy, attentiveness and aptitude. He 
became so familiar with every part of the 
business that his employer felt free to leave 
affairs in his care while he gratified his de- 
sire to promote the work of the Young Men's 
Christian Association. Further reward be- 
fell Mr. Borden after the death of Mr. Rem- 
ington, in 1886. when a i>artnership was cre- 
ated, with Edward I). Remington as junior 
member of the firm under the title, Borden 
& Remington, to continue the business of 
the founder of the house. The rcsiwnsibll- 
ity of ownership helped to broaden the abil- 
ity shown so signally as an employee by Mr. 
Borden, and each year closed with the books 
showing an enlargement of accounts. Early 
in January, 1905, he was stricken with ap- 
pendicitis. All that surgical skill and care- 
ful attention could do was employed in cop- 
ing with the disease, but it failed to tide the 




Charles Frederick Botdcn (Deceased 



HISTORY OF FALL FUVER 



197 



patient over the crisis, anil he dietl ai ilawn 
January 12, at the family residence. Rock 
street and Lincoln avenue. Educated in a 
wholesome atmosphere, it followed, as the 
night follows the day, that Mr. Borden 
should have been actively interested in the 
religious movement that engrossed the time. 
thought and attention of the man with whom 
he was connected so long in business. Like 
Mr. Remington, he was prominent in the 
affairs of the church and of the Central 
Conaregational Society. In 1893, the Massa- 
chusetts Sunday School Association divide 1 
the State into fifty districts. In 1900, Mr. 
Borden was selected for the presidency of 
the Fall River district, serving four years, 
and resigning on account of his health. He 
was the first of the district executives to 
bring Bibout the employment of a salaried 
secretary to look after the details of dis- 
trict work. The adoption of his suggestion 
resulted in placing the district in the front 
rank of the State movement. Mr. Borden 
was a memiber of the Executive Committee 
of the Massachusetts and Rhode Island 
Young Men's Christian Association. To him 
belongs the credit of the employment of the 
secretary of boys' work, a department of the 
greatest usefulness to the organization in 
these co-operating States. By his sedulous 
efforts to provide a suitable home for the 
association, in Fall River, he secured a 
large portion of the building fund. Mr. Bor- 
den served the association most acceptably 
as a director, and in the preiparation and 
application of the plans and decorative work 
his ideas were paramount. In business 
lines, apart from the interest in which he 
was the leading factor, he was president of 
the City Coal Company, of New Be<iford. a 
director of the Fall River National Bank 
and the Columbia Life Insurance Company. 
Mr. Borden was married twice. His first 
wife was Miss Annie Lincoln Remington, a 
daughter of R. K. Remington. The wedding 
was .soUninized .lune .S, ISSo. Mrs. Borden 
died July :;, is;t,'). On February 20, 1901. 
he was united in marriage with Miss Bertha 
Prances Vella, daughter of Joseph F. and 
Emma Frances Vella, of Lynn. For nine 
years Miss Vella had been the primary secre- 
retary of the Massachusetts Simday Scliool 
Association. Marriage did not result in any 
relaxation of interest in Sunday school work. 
It had attractions for iKith husl)and and wife, 
Mrs. Borden entering heartily into the plans 
of Mr. Borden, and each making the ad- 
vance of the movement a common cause. 



The children of the first Mrs. Borden are 
Ida Eastman, wife of C. F. Webb, of Wor- 
cester; Robert Remington, Edward and 
Charles Frederick. All of the \-oung men 
represent the estate in the management of 
the Borden & Remington Company. 

WILLIAM H. JENNINGS, the originator 
of the Merchants' Manufacturing Company, 
and for many years a leader in business 
circles in Fall River, was Iwrn in this city, 
February 20, 1831, the son of Edward and 
Betsey Palmer Jennings. He attended the 
puibllc schools and also a private school 
kept by George B. Stone, a noted teacher of 
the day, who afterward became the first 
principal of the high school, and at the age 
of thirteen entered a grocery store kept by 
Chester W. Greene. Here, and in the stores 
of Gray & Brownell and R. S. Gibbs & Co. 
he remained until the early sixties, and ac- 
quired a knowledge of men that proved of 
great value to him in later years. He was 
also employed, at the end of this period, by 
the Old. Colony Railroad Company, in ad- 
justing land and other damages in connec- 
tion with the extension of its road to New- 
port. In ISOG, Mr. Jennings, who saw the 
opportunity offered for success in cotton 
manufacturing, then in its infancy here, or- 
ganized the Merchants' Manufacturing Com- 
pany, securing through his zeal the $800,000 
required, in two days, and erected what was 
long the largest mill imder one roof in the 
city. He was elected clerk and treasurer of 
the corporation and managed it« affairs with 
marked success, until he was obliged to re- 
tire on account of failing health a few years 
before 'his death. Meantime, he had become 
largely interested in the Globe Street Rail- 
way Company, of which he was president, 
and was also president of the Barnard Man- 
ufacturing Company and the Globe Yarn 
Mills and a director in the Wampanoag 
Mills, the Crystal Spring Bleaching & Dye- 
ing Company, the Manufacturers" Mutual 
Fire Insurance Company and the Metaconiet 
National Bank. He had also entered actively 
into real estate operations, and with Hon. 
Robert T. Davis and the late Hon. Frank S 
Stevens owned a large tract of land west 
of Broa<lway, on which the Globe Yarn, lau- 
rel Lake and Sanford Spinning mills and the 
Algonquin Print int; Company's plant have 
since been erected. In politics he was a 
Repirblican, and was a member of the Com- 
mon Council in 18.57 and 1SSS, and president 
of that body the latter year. Ho was mar- 




William H. Jcni>rnKs iDccc.istd 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



J99 



ried December 24, ISi;;;. lo Miss Annie lior- 
(len Chase, of Portsmoiuh, R. I., who is still 
living, and had four children, one of whom, 
Charles J., died March 31, 1877. The others 
are Edward B., agent of the Allen Print 
Works, of Providence, R, I., and treasurer 
or the Samoset Company, of Valley Falls, 
R. I.; William H., treasurer of the Algon- 
quin Printing Company, and Annie J., the 
wife of Arthur Anthony. For twenty years, 
during the most rapid growth of the city as 
a center of cotton manufacturing, William 
H. Jennings was actively and intimately as- 
sociated with the industry, and was one of 
its recognized leaders, whose advice was 
freely sought. His associates on the vari- 
ous boards of directors of which he was a 
member, said of him at his death: "His 
qualities of mind ana character, in which 
energy, industry, sagacity, untiring perse- 
verance and courage were tempered with 
that wise caution which restrained him with- 
in the limit of his resources — these early se- 
cured him an important position among his 
business as.sociates and contributed largely 
to the origin and success of the important 
business enterprises in which he was en- 
gaged. . . . He contributed his full share 
to the growth and wealth of the city and to 
the comfort and convenience of its people." 

JOHN H. ESTES— About two miles from 
the centre of Fall River, pleasantly situated 
in the Maplewood Valley, are the Estes 
Mills, one of the largest coarse yarn plants 
in America. Here, for nearly lifty years. 
has been manufactured cotton wrapping 
twine, which is shipped to all parts of this 
country and to foreign ports. Aside from 
this well and widely known product, large 
quantities of carpet warp, yarns, ropes, 
clothes-lines, sash-cord, floor mops, dish 
mops, calking, wicking and machinery wip- 
ing waste are made, all of which are ex- 
tensively known in the respective classes 
of trade to which they l)elong. A later pro- 
duct added to the long list of manufactures 
is absorbent cotton, for druggists, hospitals 
and physicians. The "Excelsior" brand of 
ahaorbent cotton made at these mills has 
been pronounced by experts to be of the 
fineEt quality. Few citizens realize the ex- 
tent of label printing required by these 
mills. The present average is twenty-four 
labels per minute, or about 1.5.000 per day. 
and scores of girls are employed who label 
and seal packages of absorbent cotton and 
other goods. Two labeling machines are 



also in use. The policy of these mills has 
ever been a progressive one. as the present 
ttorough equipment and development of 
the business will testify. Their sash cor.l is 
of undisputed excellence and compares most 
favorably with any on the market. John H. 
Estes, the central Hgure in the manufactur- 
ing business at Maplewood, was lK>rn in 
Tiverton, R. 1., June lU, lsa5. In a recently 
prepared genealogy of the Estes family the 
name has been traced in English history to 
the year 1097. The family, however, is not 
of English, but of Italian origin. The name. 
spelk'd in different ways, occurs often in 
Italian history and literature. Richard Es- 
tes, the emigrant to this country, was born 
in Dover, England, in lt;i7, and came lo 
America in 1GS4. John H. Estes is a de- 
scendant in the sixth generation from Rich- 
ard Estes. His father was Job Estes, and 
his mother Delilah (Orswell) Estes. His 
grandfather. Edmund Estes, was an aible 
as well as a scholarly man. He was much 
esteemed among his fellow townspeople, was 
justice of the peace, clerk of the town of 
Tiverton and treasurer of the "Union Fac- 
tory," ^he first cotton mill founded within 
the city limits. It was a wooden structure, 
located on the site of the present Laurel 
Lake mills. Ten children were Ixjrn to Job 
and Delilah Estes, and these all grew to 
maturity. John H. Estes was the seventh in 
the family. Job Estes was a wheelwright 
of ability and ingenuity, and his carts and 
wooden plows were famous many miles 
around. Decidin.g that there was power 
enough in the valley brook to turn his lathe 
and run his saw. in 1S2.1, he bought the 
property. He built a small shop, about I.t 
by 15, to which the motive power of the 
brook was transmitted by a flutter wheel. 
Eleven years later, Oliver Bullinton, the 
pioneer cotton waste dealer of Fall River, 
leased the privilege of operating four 
eighteen-inch batting cards in the north end 
of this shop. Three years later. Jonathan 
Bridges leased the shop and power for tex- 
tile purposes. He constructed a stronger 
water-wheel, enlarged the shop and fitted it 
with wooden shafting, which run about fifty 
looms for weaving sheetings, shirtings and 
print goods. For the sake of additional 
motive iwwer. Job Estes built a second 
water-wheel thirty rods farther down the 
stream, where a ten-foot fall was obtained, 
and transmitted this additional power 
through the woods to the mill by a manila 
rope, but the device did not work very well. 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



201 



AKanuhilc, Israel IJulIiiUoii, wiio IkuI pur- 
chasetl the baiting machinery of Oliver But- 
finton. having ibeen promised the power of 
the lower water-wheel when the Bridges' 
lease expired, built adjoining the w.heel a 
wooden mill for the manufacture of cotton 
batting. In course of time this wooden mill 
was changed to a grist mill. Before his 
lease at the upper mill expired, .lonaihan 
Bridges failed. Messrs. A. & .J. Shovt^ then 
took the mill and equipped it with ma- 
chinery for spinning carpel yarns for domes- 
tic weaving. It was hire that John H. Estes 
started as a dofter l)oy. When the Shove 
lease expired. Job Kstes bought the ma- 
chinery. With his children and two or fnree 
employees he operated the mill for about 
five years During this time it was decided 
to unite the motive power of the two mills 
by leading the water in a canal to a site 
where a fall of twenty-five feet could be 
obtained. In 1S57-S, a two and one-half 
story stone mill, 45 by 70, was constructed, 
and fitted with machinery removed from t^he 
upper mill which burned to the ground in 
1S72. The early life of John H. Estes was 
sipent in and around the mill. Gradually and 
intelligently he worked his way through 
every department. His parents, working 
hard for the maintenance of their large fam- 
ily, had little time to devote to the especial 
needs of any one of them. The subject of 
our sketch lon.ged for an education. From 
liis father he inherited the qualities of in- 
dustry, economy, regularity of habits; from 
his mother, adaptability to circumstances in 
an unusual degree, but Irom his remoter 
ancestors, notably from his grandfather, a 
longing for the better things of life. He 
wanted to be something better than his 
environment would make him. He attended 
the district school but very little, not more 
than a few months altogether. At sixteen, 
he gathered together the money he had been 
saving for some time, and quietly went to 
Colchester Academy, near Willimantic, 
Conn. He wrote to his parents after his ar- 
rival and they made no olijections to his 
proceeding, although his usefulness was 
missed in the family circle. Here he re- 
mained for several months, doing odd jobs 
and chores to help pay for his tuition. In 
l.xfiO, ,Iohn H. Estes. whose genius as a 
practical maniifaeturer bad already made it- 
self felt, and Thom.ns W. Lawton, his 
brother-in-law, leased the stone mill and ma- 
chinery, and formed the firm of Lawton & 
Estes. They made wrapping twine and car- 



pel warp lor nearly lifieen years with abmil 
twelve employees. Luring the Civil War 
the mill, in common with other mills, of Fall 
River, owing to the great scarcity of cotton, 
stood idle for about two years. One of these 
years Mr. Estes spent in the South under 
Government contract to supply certain regi- 
ments with wood. At this period, realizing 
his deficiency as an accountant, he spent a 
few weeks in Providence at a business col- 
lege, trying to master the intricacies of 
bookkeeping. In 18GG, Mr. Estes married 
Caroline A. Ling, a local school teacher. 
Four children were born to them, J. Ed- 
mund, Jennie L., Elmer B, and Everett L. 
In 1.S72, .Job Estes died. Because of failure 
to secure another lease of the mill prop- 
erty, the firm of Lawton & Estes was dis- 
solved, and the mill stocJd idle for several 
years. Mr. Estes spent this time improving 
his farms and making additions to his 
tenement property. One year, during this 
period, he served as Councilman, and ano- 
ther as Assessor. In 1S80, the mill and the 
adjoining real estate were bought at public 
auction by Mr. Estes. Shortly after this 
purchase he, with his brothers, .losoph D. 
and Benjamin F., formed the firm of J. H. 
Estes & Bros., of which he was manager and 
largest owner. The greater part of the 
time he kept the hooks of the firm, working 
often late at night, assisted by his wife. 
In l.S,s:i, a series of improvements was be- 
gun: the mammoth breast wheel of twenty- 
five horse-power was supplanted by a mod- 
ern horizontal turbine of forty horse-power, 
and a few years later an engine and a boiler 
of ICO horse-power were added. The 
amount of machinery was increased three- 
fold. About G,00(l square feet of floor was 
added to the mill and a large stone store- 
house constructed. In October, 1890, by 
mutual consent, the partnership was dis- 
solved. Two months later, the firm of J. H. 
Bstes & Son was formed, with J. Edmund 
Estes the junior partner. Industrial im- 
provements and enlargements more radical 
in their nature resulted from the new man- 
agement. In 1892 a large storehouse was 
built, and another story added to the mill 
and adjoining buildings. In 1895, a three- 
story No. 2 mill, 7,") by 130, was built, two 
boilers were added to the steam plant and 
the old engine supplanted by a 500-horse- 
power, cross-compound, condensing Harris- 
Corliss engine. A large stone ofBce was 
built at this time, also another storehouse. 
75 Tty 125 feet. In 1897 the entire plant was 




.-'.f' ^Cm/ ;^/-^7 ■-/•^— '■ V^Y 
:■[■—/•■! ■ )• ' 



'i> .*, (i./A .-i.^t^./f.// ■■ \ 



Quill P^-ii Ltd^ct ..1 Eam..iii E:.U». Trcu-mrii ol •Union F.wlory." Fended Fcbn. 
Flr»l Cotton Mill Ett.iMiiihcd Within the City Limltt. 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



203 



equipped with a thorough system of auto- 
matic sprinklers. In 1900 the firm name 
was changed to J. H. Estes & Sons, Elmer 
D. Estes being taken into the business. 
Four years before this a No. 3 mill, 50 by 
110, was built, and the absorbent cotton 
department added to the business, and in 
1902, a No. 4 mill, GO by 125. was built, for 
the sash-cord ^business. In 1905, Mr. Estes 
realized a long-cherished ambition in the 
incorporation of his plant under the name 
tstes Mills." In this new management 
John H. Estes, is president; J. Edmund 
Estes, treasurer; Elmtr B. Eslos, superin- 
tendent, and Rufus P. Walker, secretary, 
and these four make up the board of di- 
rectors. During this year the company 
bought the absorbent cotton business of the 
Seaside Mills, located in Tiverton. R. I., on 
the shores of Mount Hope Bay. and the en- 
tire quick assets of the concern were re- 
moved to the Estes Mills, where an addition 
51 by 100 feet was built to accommodate the 
machinery. The present plant consists of 
four acres of floor space. It was soon ap- 
parent that these industrial enlargements 
had overtaxed the motive power of the en- 
gine and water wheel, and in 1906. an auxil- 
iary engine of 250 horse-power was installed. 
This is a triple cylinder Diesel engine, and 
was the first installation of the kind in 
Fall River. It consumes the cheapest liquid 
fuel, such as crude oil. and the builders 
guaranteed a saving of 70 per cent in the 
cost of power as compared with any steam 
engine built. The cost of fuel per horse- 
power per hour figures about one-fifth of a 
cent and is a saving of over noo per cent of 
the cost of operating a common gas engine. 
Not by accident has John H. Estes suc- 
ceeded. By industry, energy and enthusi- 
asm of purpose he has steadily chiseled his 
way and accomplished what he has under- 
taken. He is a self-made man. Ho has had 
many obstacles to overcome, but with in- 
domitable courage he has surmounted them 
and created conditions for achievement. In 
business circles outside of the mill, his po- 
sition is quiet, unassuming and effective. He 
is a wealthy and influential citizen, a large 
real estate owner, president of the People's 
Co-Operative Bank and a director in seven 
local corporations. 

JEFFERSON BORDEN was one of the 
men who was identified with the progress 
and development of this city. He was born 
in Freetown (now Fall River), the birth- 



place of many of the famous name, Febru- 
ary 28, 1801. He was a son of Thomas Bor- 
den, in the fourth generation from John 
Borden, the founder of the family in this 
city. Young Jefferson was brought up on 
the farm, and like many of his brothers and 
sisters, loved the countrj-, the flowers and 
the trees, but early in youth he left tha 
farm and became a clerk in a provision store 
in Providence, R. I. His early education 
was secured at the public schools, and his 
ambition in life was to be a successful man 




J.ffc 



Borden (Deceased) 



of business. In 1.S19 he returned to Fall 
River, and in 1S20, with his brother, Rich- 
ard, he entered the shipping business. 
Richard at that time was running the boats 
known as the "Irene" and "Betsey." In 1S20 
the brothers bought out the store of Holder 
Borden, and Jefferson was installed as clerk 
to conduct the business. In 1821, upon the 
organization of the iron works enterprise, 
he was chosen clerk of the establishment. 
When the company opened a warehouse and 
salesroom at Providence, he became the 
agent, and remained as such for fifteen 
years. In 1837. on account of the ill health 
of Holder Borden, his cousin, he was called 
to Fall River, and became one of the man- 
agement of the American Print Works. For 
nearly half a century he was connected with 
the print works and was interested in many 
of the city's progressive enterprises. He 
was a man of many parts and was a di- 
rector and president of the Fall River 
Iron Works Company. Fall River Bleachery. 
American Linen Company. Troy Cotton and 
Woollen Company. Borden Mining Company. 
Anawan Manufacturing Company. Fall River 
Machine Company. Fall River and Provi- 
dence Steamboat Company, the National 



204 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Manufacturing Company, Fall River Gas 
Company and many other important enter- 
prises. He was a trustee of Brown Uni- 
versity anrl his long and busy life was full 
of energy and usefulness, and when he 
passed away Fall River lost another of her 
illustrious sons. 

STEPHEN DAVOL is one of the group of 
cotton manufacturers who helped to make 
the name of p-a.ll River famous as a cotton 
manufacturing city. He was born in Fall 
River Noveiruber 22, 1S07, where he resided 
until the time of his death. He began his 
career in the cotton business away back in 
ISIS, when he entered the Troy Mills, work- 
ing hard all day and attending school in the 
evening. He was apprenticed to Daniel 
Wright & Co. to learn the bleaching and 
calico-printing business. He did not remain 
with this firm very long as the work was 
net very steady: he became dissatisfied and 




St.phcn D.1V0I 'Deceased) 

returned to the Troy Mills and became over- 
seer of their spinning, dressing and weaving, 
where he remained until is:j:', when he was 
called to the superintendcncy of the Pocas- 
-set Mills. In ISS? he was made treasurer 
and served in that capacity until 1S77. Mr. 
Davol was considered one of the .grtatesl 
of the cotton manufacturers and his opinion 
was largely sought on all occasions. He 
was president of the Mechanics' Mills, and 
a director in this and the Pocasset, Troy, 
Wampanoag and Barnard Manufacturing 
(■o:iipani«5. He was president of the Fall 
River Mutual Fire InFurance Company and 
a director in ihc Blackslone and Merchants' 
Fire Insurance Companies, of Providence, 
U. 1.. and the Melacomet Bank of this city, 
and the Waulnppa Reservoir Company. Mr. 
Davol was united in marriage with Sarah F 



Cliase. and their children are as follows: 
Bradford Durfee, married Cornelia Wheeden 
Lincoln December 1. INT.".: Sarah Louisa, 
married .Joseph L. BufTinton September 21, 
18G4 ; Mary Anna, married Alexander Dor- 
ranee Kaston September 27, ISOa; James 
Clark Chase, married Mary Ellen Brownell; 
(ieorge Stephen, married Mary Louisa Dean 
September :?, lS7:i: Harriette Remington, 
married Stephen Barnaby Ashley February 
IS, 1874: Abner Pardon, married Harriet J. 
Marvell: Charles M. R. and Clara Freeborn. - 
Mr. Davol was a public-spirited citizen and 
when he departeil this life Fall River lost 
one of its favorite sons and best manu- 
facturers. , I 

HON. WILLIAM STEDMAN GREENE 
deserves a place in the history of Fall River 
because he earned it. No man in the his- 
tory of politics has done more for posterity 
than he. Every public improvement has had 
his support. He stands for purity in public 
affairs. The public know him and trust 
him. As Mayor, he gave the city a wise and 
conservative administration. As postmaster 
he was successful and served faithfully for 
four years. As sujierintendent of State 
prisons he inaugurated reforms which we 
enjoy to-day, and as our representative in 
I he Congress of the United States he is all 
we could possibly desire. Congressman 
rjreene was born in Tazewell County, 111.. 
April 2S, 1S41. He came with his parents 
to Fall River in 1S44, and received his edu- 
cation in the public schools of this city. He 
is a self-made man in every sense of the 
word: in fact, his entire life has been busy 
and eventful. He began life as a clerk at 
the age of fifteen and laid the foundation 
for his business career. In IS.SS, he engaged 
in the insurance business with ,Iohn P. Slade 
as his associate. .Mr. Greene went to Buf- 
falo In ISCS, and later opened an insurance 
office in New York City, where he was suo- 
cesfful. In ISOfi he returned to his old love. 
Fall River, going into the real estate and in- 
surance business with his father, who was a 
well known and successful business man at 
that time, under the firm name of Greene 
& Son. After his father's death. Mr. Greene 
continued the business, and later look In his 
s(m. Chester, continuing the firm name of 
Greene & Son. The firm has charge of the 
very best class of property, and the Con- 
gressman is often called from Washington 
to sell some Important estate; such is the 
confidence and esteem in which he is held 




Hon. Willum Stcdman Greene. Member of ConKrtss 



206 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



by the citizens of this city. Mr. Greene has 
always tal^en an active part in Republican 
politics, especially when the welfare of Fall 
River was at stake. He was a member of 
the Fall River Council from 1876 to 1879. 
inclusive, and was president of that body 
(luring that time. In 1879 he was elected 
Mayor, and resigned to accept the office of 
postmaster, which was tendered him by 
President Garfield in 1881. He served with 
distinction for four years, and returned to 
private life. He was not permitted to re- 
main long in seclusion, for in 1885 he was 
nonored again by his party, and elected 
Mayor. By this time William S. Greene be- 
came known all over the State as a clean, 
conservative and efTicient official. He at- 
tracted the attention of Governor Amee, 
who appointed him, in 1888, Superintendent 
of State Prisons, where his record is too 
well known to netd repeating hero. The He- 
publican party, by honoring the man, ha.s Ifon- 
ored itself. Mr. Greene was honest, fearless 
and indepemlent; a public office was a pub- 
lic trust, and in the administration of its 
affairs he was just to all. In 1894 the Re- 
pulilican party called him again, and elected 
iiini .Ma.vor, and re-elected him for two ad- 
ditional terms. He was elected to Congress 
in 1898, and is still a member of that dis- 
tinguished body. He is an influential member 
of St. Paul's M. E. Church, and was super- 
intendent of its Sunday school for many 
years. In 18C.5 he was united in marriage to 
Mary K.. daughter of Pardon A. and Eliza/- 
beth \V. (Spink) White, of Fall River. Three 
children were born to them, namely: Mabel 
Lawton, Chester White and Foster Regnier. 
Mr. Greene is a member and past master 
of Mt. Hope Lodge. F. & A. M. Chapter, 
Council and Commandery: also a member of 
Knights of Pythias and the Order of Odd 
Fellows. On Jime 19, 190G, Branch 18, Na- 
tional Letter Carriers' Association pre- 
sented to the Congressman a handsomely 
framed set of engrossed resolutions which 
read as follows: "Resolutions of Apprecia- 
tion — To Honorable William S. Greene: At 
a meeting of the members of Branch 18, Na- 
tional Association of Letter Carriers, of New 
Bedford, Mass., the following resolutions 
were unanimously adopted: Whereas, our 
Congressman, the Honorable William S 
fJrcene, having done an imnicasiirablc 
aniount of work with the Post Office Depart- 
ment to have the new census accepted, and 
to have the carrier service rc-classlfied, and 
in having the coiiipcnsation of our mounted 



carriers raised to equal that of the same 
branch of Civil Service in other cities; It 
Is Therefore Resolved, That as he has al- 
ways shown a deep interest in everything per- 
taining to the letter carriers, both in and 
out of Congress, that we. the members of 
Branch is. National Association of Letter 
Carrier-s, do hereby express our gratification, 
and tender to him our heartiest thanks for 
the interest he has always taken in our wel- 
fare; and. Resolved, That we extend to our 
honored friend our wishes for his long con- 
tinuance in the responsible place he has so 
honorably and ably filled in the service of 
his coimtry. Committee; .lohn J. McAu- 
llffe, Albert H. Peters. Charles S. .Moynan." 

HON. JAMES FREDERICK .lACKSON.— 
Fall River is honored in the activities of thri 
Stale by nobody more conspicuously and 
creditably than by James F. Jackson, chair- 
man of the Board of Railroad Commission- 
ers. Mr. Jackson belongs to Taunton by 
right of birth, but he has been so long a part 
of the i)ublic and professional life of this 
city that he is regarded as a son of Fall 
River. He was born November 13, 1851, tho 
son of Elisha T. and Caroline (Fobes) Jack- 
son. He prepared for Harvard College in 
the Taunton schools and was admitted m 
18G9. The course was completed in 1873, 
and the young graduate entered immediately 
upon the study of law under the mentorship 
of Judge Edmund H. Bennett. Diligence 
marked his application to his books, and in 
1S74 he enrolled as a student in Boston 
University. .Mr. Jackson received his de- 
gree a year later, and opened an office in 
Fall River. In 1882 a partnership with 
David F. Slade was established under the 
firm name of Jackson & Slade. which be- 
came Jackson. Slaile & Borden U|X)n the 
accession of Richard P. Borden. His ability 
as a lawyer was recognized in 1880 by tlie 
city government choosing Mr. Jackson as 
city solicitor, an office ho filled with signal 
credit for nine consecutive years with one 
exception. His familiarity with municipal 
affairs led to his nomination by the Repub- 
licans for the mayoralty In 1S8S, an act 
which was ratlfieii by the citizens that year 
and again In 1889. The two years of ser- 
vice were prolific In admirable results, as 
was to be expetMed from an executive who 
was so long a student of munlci|>al govern- 
ment. One of Mayor Jackson's first sug- 
gestions was the purchase of meat and other 
supplies for the iH)or depaitmeni by con- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



207 



tract and the abandonment of the discredit- 
ed order system. It was through his in- 
sistence that the aldermen ceased to be 
overseers of the poor and a separate body 
constituted, a change that long ago proved 
its wisdom. Steps for the protection of the 
water supply began with the Jackson ad- 
ministration. To it likewise is due the 
credit for the introduction of the system 
of police signals and ambulances, the 
building of a railroad station in Bowenville 
in place of the shack that had been an eye- 
sore for years, and the completion of the 
work of reconstructing the City Hall. When 
Mayor Jackson left the office it was with 
the good opinion and hearty commendation 
of the citizens, irrespective of partisanship. 
Governor Wolcott wanted Mr. Jackson to be- 
come Judge of the Superior Court, but the 
offer of a seat was declined. The Governor, 
the following year, named him to be chair- 
man of the Railroad Commission to fill out 
the unexpired term of John E. Sanforii. re- 
signed. In 1900, Governor Crane reappointed 
him for a three-year term, examples which 
were followed successively by Governor 
Bates and Governor Guild. Conservatism 
has marked the administration of the depart- 
ment during Mr. Jackson's connection with 
it. Every case has been considered on its 
merits, and equity has governed ever.v rul- 
ing, with the result that the commission has 
won the implicit confidence of an exacting 
public. Shortly after his arrival in Fall 
River. Mr. Jackson became connected with 
the militia, in which he has not lost inter- 
est, though no longer affiliated. He was 
elected Second Lieutenant of Company "M," 
First Regiment of Infantry, and not long 
afterwards Colonel A. C. Wellington made 
him Paymaster. Promotion to Major was in 
recognition af his activity and aptitude, and 
finally, to Lieutenant-Colonel. That honor 
he held when official duties obliged him to 
retire with an honorable discharge. The 
Commissioner was married June 16, 1882, to 
Miss Caroline S. Thurston, whose father 
was Rev. Eli Thurston, D. D., an honored 
rastor of the Central Congregational Church 
He was the first president of the Young 
Men's Christian A.ssociation, and is a di- 
rector of the Cornell and other corporations. 

NATHAN DURFRE. .M. D.— This well 
known and highly esteemed citizen, and one 
of the early physicians of this city, was 
born in p'reetown (now Fall River), in 1799, 
and like his brother. Thomas R. Durtee, was 



a graduate of old Brown L'nlversity, being 
graduated therefrom in 1S24, and the 
brothers have the honor of being the first 
graduates from Fall River. Dr. Dujtee 
studied medicine at Harvard University, and 
graduated with the degree of M.D. He did 
not practice long, however, as the profession 
did not appeal to him, and he entered the 
drug business, opening a store on what is 
known now a.s Central street, a short dis- 
tance west of Main street. After a few 
years he gave up the drug business and 
began life as a man of affairs. He was a 
director in the Fall River Iron Works, Amer- 
ican Print Works, Fall River Railroad, Caps 
Co;| Railroad, Bay State Steamship Com- 
pany, and was the principal owner in the 
.MassasDit Steam Mill, which was destroye.l 




Nathan Durfcc, M. D. (Dcccajcdl 

by fire in 1875. He built several fine build- 
ings to give tone and respectability to the 
city, more than for an investment. The 
Qoctor was a large investor in land and 
owned over one thousand acres. He was 
president of the Bristol County Agricultural 
Society and was the originator of the Bristol 
County Central Society. He was a trustee 
of the State Agricultural College and was 
its treasurer for many years. Dr. Durfee 
was one of the supporters of the Central 
Congregational Church, and with Colonel 
Richard Borden, furnished n large part of 
the funds to build the beautiful structure, a 
picture of which can be found in this vol- 
ume. The doctor died April G. 1S7C. 

HON. GEORGE GRIME.— George Grime, 
the former Mayor of Fall River, was born 
September 7, 1859. and is the son of William 
E. and Ruth Mellor Grime, and came to Fall 
River with his parents in the early part of 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



the year 1SG9. He attended the Morgan 
street school until the summer vacation, 
and from that time was employed in the 
various mills and printing works in the city 
until 187!1. He attended the Anawan street 
school for three months in each year, until 
he reached the age of fifteen, as required 
by the factory laws of Massachusetts. He 
was unusually studious and spent hi.s even- 
ings for two years in the commercial school 
of F. A. Holmes. In the early part of 1879. 
during a temporary stoppage at the Ameri- 
can Printing Works, where he was employed, 
he again re-entered the public day schools. 
Horace A. Benson was then, and now is. 
pr:ncii)al of the Morgan street school, and 
■( iiiK liis . :inii'.-<-]ir ~, i.);)k him in si)eoial 




Ho 



Gcorxc Gri 



charge, and by his kindly help was of great 
service to him. Entrance to the Fall River 
High School was ihen only obtained after 
examination, and Mr. (irinie was admitted 
into the inslitulion In the fall of 1S79. After 
a stay there of three years, he passed ad- 
mission examinations to Brown University 
in the fall of 1.SS2, and was graduated there- 
from with the degree of H. A. in ISSG. He 
then became a law student in the ofllce of 
Hon. Milton Reed, and in the following year 
entered the Harvard Law School, from 
which he was graduated in 1S90 with the 
degree of LL. H.. Hrown I'niversity the same 
year conferring upon him the degree of A. 
M. On April 1. 1S!M(. licfore his graduation 



from the Harvard Law School, Mr. Grime 
was admitted to the Bristol County Bar, 
but did not begin practice until the follow- 
ing September. After practicing alone for a 
few months, he was invited by Marcus G. B. 
Swift to form a law partnership with him 
upon the dissolution of the firm of Braley & 
Swift, caused hy the appointment as a Jus- 
tice of» the Superior Court of Hon. Henry 
K. Braley. The firm of Swift & Grime con- 
tinued until the death of Mr. Swift, in Feb- 
ruary, 1902. when a new firm was formed by 
Mr. Grime and Hon. .lames M. Swift, a son 
of his former partner, who was then the 
Assistant District Attorney for the Southern 
District of Massachusetts, and who has since 
been elected District Attorney. In 1S93, Mr 
Grime was elected City Solicitor of the city 
of Fall River, to which office he was thrice 
elected, declining in l.S9(> to become a can- 
didate for re-f!ection. In 189('> he was ap- 
pointed by Governor Frederick T. Green- 
halgh one of the Special .lustices of the 
Second District Court, which office he held 
until he resigned in January, 1902, on as- 
siming the office of Mayor of the city of 
Fall River. This office he held for the years 
of 1902, 1903 and 1904. During no other 
ihree years in the history of Fall River have 
more or greater changts taken place. After 
referendum, the provisions of law relating 
to the control of public parks was vested in 
a board of five commissioners. Mayor Grime 
l)elieving that the |)ublic interests would be 
alvanced by placing the control of public 
cf meteries in the same board, petitioned the 
Legislature, and secured law to that effect. 
.\fier a careful consideration of men. a Park 
and Cemetery Commission was a|)pointed. 
of which Reuben C. Small, Jr., was chair- 
man. Probably no public officials wei-e more 
severely criticised and censured than these 
commissioners at the beginning of the work. 
l)ut before two years had elapsed the value 
and excellence of their services was uni- 
versally recogni/.ed and applauded. The 
South Park, the North Park, Ruggles Park 
and other smaller places were transformed 
from rubbish heaps into objects of pride, 
pleasure and recreation. The work of con- 
struction was done in accordance with plans 
of Olmslead Brothers, of Brookline. Mass, 
and at the cost of $1.")0.000. The manage- 
ment of the public cemeteries was taki^n 
from the control of i>olitics and placed upon 
a good business foundation. The stupendous 
work of abolishing railroad crossings at 
grade with streets was begun, and with the 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



2C9 



fexception of a small porlion of the work 
at Water street, was fully completed during 
his term of office. The charter of the city 
was completely changed, after referendum 
to the voters. Mr. Grime was thus the last 
Mayor under the old charter and the first 
under the new. By the new charter, adopted 
in 19U2, to talve effect in 1903, a Board of 
Aldermen of twenty-sevtn was elected in- 
stead of the former bi-cameral government, 
consisting of nine Aldermen and twenty- 
seven Councilmen, all officials were elected 
for two years instead of one, and the old 
method of committees of the city govern- 
ment directing and ordering public work 
was abolished, and the control of such was 
p.acEd in departments UDder the supervision 
of the Mayor. Naturally, friction prevailed, 
and the charter was required to be officially 
interpreted by the Supreme Judicial Court. 
The new charter required a new compilation 
of the ordinances, v/hich was carefully done. 
The fire department was placed under con- 
trol of three conimlssioners, and the many 
changes in the . method of doing business 
caused by the charter required a vast 
amount of the Mayor's time. The water sup- 
ply of the city is from the North Watuppa 
Pond, and an expert engineer, Arthur T. 
Safford, of Lowell, Mass., who had been re- 
tained to make investigation concerning the 
supply, made his very valuable report during 
Mayor Grime's years of office. In accordance 
with the expert advice contained in this re- 
port, large tracts of land near the pond 
were purchased by the city, and the Board 
cf Reservoir Commissioners took active 
means to protect the quality and quantity 
cf the water supply. The full value of this 
work cannot be estimated at present as it 
is still in progress, and like all vast improve- 
n.ents, meets occasionally with opposition. 
A definite policy of street improvement was 
begun; street car sprinklers were intro- 
duced; granite block paving resumed: the 
old tar concrete sidewalks constructed at 
the entire expense of the city forever abol- 
ished, and a system introduced of laying 
artificial stone sidewalks at the equal ex- 
pense of the city and abutting owners. This 
policy, while new to Fall River, is univer- 
sally practiced elsewhere, and its value is 
now beginning to be appreciated. Since his 
retirement from the office of .Mayor. Mr. 
Grime has applied himself to the practice of 
law, in conjunction with Hon. .Tames M. 
Swift and .John A. Kerns, Esn.. who recently 
was admitted to the firm. The old name of 



Swifi i\i Grime has been retained, and the 
name of Kerns a<l<led. Mr. Grime was mar- 
ried Octoiber 9, 1S99, to Helen A. Arnold, 
daughter of William W. Arnold and Mahaly 
Arnold, of New Bedford. He is a director 
and attorney of the Troy Co-Operative Bank, 
and of other Fall River corporations. He is 
a member of a number of social and other 
organizations, in-chiding the Masons, Elks, 
Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias. 

IJAN'IEL D. Sri.LIVAN is a Bunker Hill 
boy; that is, he was born in the vicinity of 
the famous battle-ground ot the revolution 
in Charlestown, where his parents fir.st lo- 
cated on coming from Ireland. In .May. 
1844, they came to this city, being among 
the early settlers of Irish nationality to make 
their homes in Fall River. They belonged 
to the sturdy stock which overcame great 
difficulties in the new country, and imbued 
their offspring with love of God and coun- 
try. Educational advantages and industrial 
opportunities were not of the liberal pro- 
portions that confront the rising generation 
of the present. For the average boy it was 
a case of short schooling and lon.g and many 
days as a wage-earner for small pay. Mr. 
Sullivan had that experience. His first em- 
ployment was as a backboy for twenty-two 
cents a day, in the Troy mill, which then 
contained but five and one-half pairs of 
mules. When he grew older he was pro- 
moted to look after the half mule. His life 
in a cotton mill continued until 18G9, when 
he formed a partnership with Edward Har- 
rington, to conduct a grocery. The firm 
lasted until 1875. Then Mr. Sullivan started 
the undertaking business at 2G9 South Main 
street, and conducted it actively for thirty 
years, when he retired to take a well-earned 
rest. His sons, James E. and Michael H., 
who had been associated with him for sev- 
eral years under the firm name of D. D. 
Sullivan & Sons, continue the business. 
Long before he had the voting privilege be 
was interested in politics, being an ardent 
Democrat. That ardor intensified with 
years, until the prominence of leadership 
was attained. He cared more for the suc- 
cess and advanc.-ment of others than to seek 
office for himself, and was res|X)nsible for 
more men winning honors and emoluments 
than any mc^niber of the local democracy 
during the long years of activity in its coun- 
cils and campaigns. The list of beneficiaries 
of his practical interest Is a long and im- 
pressive one. In ISSI, he was chosen a dls- 




D.imcl D. Siilliv.in 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



211 



trict member of the State Committee, and 
occupied the honor until 1891, when he was 
made a Committeeman-at-Large, a post after- 
wards acceptably filled by his son, James E. 
Sullivan, who inherits the father's love of 
politics. A further honor was conferred by 
his selection as a delegate to the National 
conventions held in 1SS4 and 18SS, which 
nominated Grover Cleveland for the Presi- 
dency. In reward for his years of unselfish 
devotion to the party, he was nominated for 
IK)stmaster. As the Senate quickly con- 
firmed his appointment his commission was 
issued February 1, 1894. The administration 
that was begun that day was prolific in re- 
sults that surprised everyone and brought 
the office to a higher state of usefulness 
than at any time in its history, at the same 
time estatjlishing for the incumbent the re- 
putation of being the best postmaster Fall 
River has ever had. Receipts, which at the 
beginning of Mr. Sullivan's connection with 
the office had amounted to $.54,293.93, 
reached the total of $70,114.08 when at the 
end of four years the exigencies of politics 
caused a change in the position against the 
protest of leading citizens, many of wliom 
urged the postmaster's retention for business 
reasons. An appreciative article in the Fall 
River "News" said, among other things: 
"Mr. Sullivan introduced many features into 
tne service that have been adopted. The 
free delivery system has been extended, and 
places that had one delivery now have three 
and four. He established sub-stations at 
Flint and Globe villages, and among his 
progressive work was the establishment of 
the railway postal car service between this 
city. Providence and Newport. To him is 
due the credit of abolishing the antique 
pony mail between this city and Providence. 
The entire system of collecting mail and dis- 
tributing it has been reorganized and im- 
proved. The increase in the revenues from 
$53,000 to more than $70,000 is a creditable 
showing. While Mr. Sullivan has been, and 
still is, one of the leaders of the Democratic 
party, it is no more than just for Republi- 
cans to say that no better postmaster ever 
served the city of Fall River. He retires 
with the gratitude of all citizens for work 
well done, and with their best wishes for the 
future." An illuminated set of resolutions 
was presented by the carriers on his re- 
tirement. On January 26, 1SG7, in the city 
of Taunton, Mr. Sullivan was united in mar- 
riage to Miss Hannah K. Sullivan. The 
union was blessed with eight children. 



namely; James E., Michael H., Mary E., de- 
ceased; Rev. John A., Hannah, deceased: 
Daniel, deceased; Annie G. and Joseph A. 
Sullivan. Their mother passed away from 
earth August 28, 18S9. In 1892, Mr. Sullivan 
took as his second wife Miss Mary Doherly, 
of this city. They reside in a commodious 
and attractive residence on Whipple street, 
and during the summier months occupy a 
large, comfortable house on the heights of 
'I'iverton. Mr. Sullivan is a charter member 
(-1 the Clover Club, the Y. M. I. A. C. T. A. 
Society and the Knights of Columbus, He 
is a director of the St. Vincent Orphans' 
Home, and served for twenty years as jiresi- 
dent of the board of directors of the Fall 
River Daily Globe Publishing Company, re- 
tiring at the last meeting of the stockholders, 
l)ut retaining his large interest in the cor- 
poration. Mr. Sullivan has always been in- 
terested in the affairs of St. Patrick's 
Church, GIol)e Village, being among its lar- 
gest contributors. The sweet-toned bell 
which summons the parishioners to worship 
was presented by Mr. Sullivan as a memorial 
to his beloved daughter, Mary E. Sullivan. 

FRANKLIN GRAY.— One of the city's 
early settlers and a citizen without a peer 
in the length and variety of the services he 
has rendered the public, is Franklin Gray, 
who has seen Fall River grow from the vil- 
lage. and town of Troy into the commanding 
position now occupied in llie sisterhood of 
progressive cities. He belongs to the class 
of octogenarians, of whom there are com- 
l.'uratively few in the population of today, 
who are native born. His father was David 
tiray, and his mother was Betsey Paine 
Winslow, daughter of Dr. .lohn Winslow. 
His native place is Somerset, and he was 
l)orn May 29, 1824. Although the family 
ved on a farm and agricultural pursuits 
were the chief field of usefulness for the 
youth of those days, Mr. Gray developed a 
fondness for navigation, and, after 1844, 
made several voyages. In 184(i he was mar- 
ried to Irene Gardner, and again took up 
farming life. The discovery of gold in Cal- 
ifornia aroused his interest, and In 1819 Mr. 
Gray joined the crowd of travelers to the 
Pacific. Two years of the life was enough 
for him. In 1853 he became a resident of 
Fall River, forming a partnership with Ed- 
ward P. Buffinton, the second .Mayor of the 
city, to carry on the meat business. His 
health was not equal to the work which in 
those days seemed necessary for the success 




Frankl;n Gray 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



213 



of such an undertaking, and in a very few 
years he was compelled to retire, much to 
the regret of his partner and himself. For 
the restoration of his health he made sev- 
eral trips to the West Indies. The offer of 
the inspectorship of the port, made in ISGl 
hy Charles Almy. Collector, was accepted. 
President Andrew Johnson believed in the 
spoils theory, and new men were placed in 
the customs offices. In 18GG, Mr. Gray was 
elected City Marshal, and the following year 
Hugh McCuIlaugh made him an Assistant 
Assessor of Interna! Revenues. The duties 
of that position he combined witu the work 
of assessing legacies and successions in Bris- 
tol county. There was no interruption of 
this employment until 1873. when C. B. H. 
Fessenden, Collector, named Mr. Gray as a 
Deputy Collector of Internal Revenue, an 
office that was held until the consolidation 
of revenue districts. A commission as a 
deputy sheriff was secured in ISO", and for 
twenty-eight consecutive years he filled the 
position. His work in the several ways in 
which he had served the public made pos- 
sible the election of Mr. Gray to two offices 
in 1ST7 — as a member of the House of Re- 
presentatives and as a County Commissioner. 
As long as he cared to hold the comniis- 
sionership the Republican party honored him 
iiy repeated nominations, which the citizens 
of the county ratified at the polls. Eighteen 
years of creditable connection with county 
affairs, most of the time as chairman of the 
board, is his record. Succeeding Governors 
followed the example of Governor Rice in 
creating Mr. Gray a justice of the . peace. 
Governor William E. Russell, in 1892, issu- 
ing ithe last commission which the citizens 
applied for. Since 189.5 Air. Gray has been 
taking life easy on account of his Ticalth. 
His wife died February 21, 1899, and since 
then he has been looked after tenderly by 
his daughter, the wife of Thomas D. Covel, 
of the firm of Covel & Osborn Company. He 
was a member of the old Commercial Club, 
which had quarters in the Pleasant street 
side of the Borden block, and when the 
Quequechan Club was organized, he was 
one of the first to join, continuing a mem- 
ber until 1903. Reading is his pastime. Al- 
though unable to be a participant in the 
affairs of the life in which he was so long 
an important figure, his interest is as keen 
as ever. His home, at ItG Franklin street, 
which the family has held since 1851, has 
attractions for a host of friends, who draw 
freely on the fund of reminiscence and in- 



formation at the tongue's end of their es- 
teemed townsman. 

HON. OLIVER CHACE, manufacturer. 
Senator, representative and man of affairs, 
was born in Swansea, Mass., November 11, 
1812. He came with his parents to Fall 
River in 1813 and obtained his education at 
the district schools in Fall River, and at 
the Friends School in Providence, R. I. He 
was a clerk for a short time after leaving 
school, and later accepted a clerkship in 
the office of the cotton manufactory of Chace 
Luther, his brother being the senior partner. 
Later he formed a co-partnership with Israel 
Buffinton, under the firm name of Bufilnion 
& Chace and engaged in the manufacture of 
cotton laps, which businrs.s he continued un- 
til 1838, when, in company with Joseph C. 
-Anthony, firm name of Chace & Anthony, 
engaged in the manufacturing of cotton 
yarns. In 1840 he erected the Mount Hope 



■^f^. 
■^-1^. 



i 



Hon. Oli/cr Chace I Deceased) 

Mills, which he conducted himself for Iwen- 
ty-five years. He was a director in the Na- 
tional Union Bank and was one of the In- 
corporators of the Pocasset National Bank, 
also the Citizens" Savings Bank. He was 
one of the assessors of taxes, overseer of 
the poor and for several times was elected 
to the General Assembly of Rhode Island, 
both as representative and Senator. He 
was the originator of the Fall River Manu- 
facturers' Mutual Insurance Company, which 
was established largely t!iroiii;h his efforts. 
In politics he was first a Whig, and later 
joined the Republican ranks. Mr. Chace 
was a public-spirited man. and always looked 
upon the bright side of public affairs. He 
was a persistent opponent of slavery and an 
advocate of temperance and other forms of 
good society and government. 




Robctt Armstrong McWhirr (Dccc.iscd) 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



215 



ROBERT ARMSTRONG McWHIRR— Al- 
though " 'tis not in mortals to command suc- 
cess," the story of success as achieved, if 
anyone should undertake Lo write it, would 
be much like the running brook, in that it 
went on forever. Fall River's contribution to 
the narrative would include among its i.iany 
paragraphs something descriptive of the life 
and career of Robert Armstrong McWhirr. 
The history of the dry-goods business in this 
city would be sadly lacking in completeness 
if there was a failure to give an account of 
the founder of the splendid house conducted 
by the R. A. McWhirr Company, for the very 
name seems to be one with which to con- 
jure. Mr. McWhirr was born in Scotland 
in 1850. He acquired his early knowledge 
of the business in which he became so much 
of a factor, in Glasgow. On coming to the 
United States, in 1S73, he secured employ- 
ment in Providence, remaining there only a 
short time. Then Fall River became his 
place of abode and of work, for he joined the 
clerical force of E. S. Brown. Mr. McW'hirr 
was ambitious and confident, and in 1877 
the firm of Ramsey & McWhirr began busi- 
ness in a small way. At that time the young 
immigrant laid the foundation of his sub- 
s-3quent success and fortune. When E. S. 
Brown removed to North Main street, the 
store which he vacated was leased by Mr. 
McWhirr, whose purpose to engage in the 
departmental business, when announced to 
his friends, led none of them to question the 
wisdom of the step. Since, with a capital 
of which energy and intelligence were the 
principal factors, he had demonstrated his 
capabilities as a manager, the outcome of 
the larger undertaking was foreshadowed 
as successful. Mr. McWhirr believed in 
young men as his subordinates, and the in- 
terest and attention which were applied by 
them to their work contributed materially 
to the ample fruition of the plans and hopes 
of their employer. There were no periods 
of doubt and uncertainty in the conduct of 
the business. Development was solid and 
rapid; progress dominated the institution, 
as was attested by the enlargements during 
the life-time of the creator and the expan- 
sion afterwards. R. A. McWhirr diol in 
1893. He left a wife, who w^as Miss Eliza- 
beth Jane Greggan. a successful teacher in 
the schools of the city, and a daughter of 
•lohn Greggan, an estimable citizen, and for 
many years connected with the police de- 
partment. The two children of the marriage 
are Robert Ramsay McWhirr, aged twenty- 



one, and Margaret Armstrong, aged nineteen. 
The merchant was a member of Mt. Hope 
Lodge of Masons, the Caledonian Society 
and the Clover Club. Following the death 
of .Mr. McWhirr steps were taken to form 
an incorporated company for the carrying 
on of the business along the' lines deline<l 
by him who established them. Articles were 
prepared in 1893, and the R. A. McWhirr 
Company was established with the following 
officers: President and treasurer, Asa A. 
Mills; clerk, R. S. Thompson; superintend- 
ent. James H. Alahoney; directors, the above 
named and Mrs. E. J. McWhirr and Thomas 
Mills. The principal ofBcers are men who 
have established reputations in the dry-goods 
business of Fall River. Although all their 
work has been confined principally to the 
McWhirr store, their ability as merchants 
has been shown in a multiplicity of ways in 
connection therewith. It was natural, there- 
fore, that Mrs. McWhirr, in her desire to 
perpetuate the name, should select for co- 
partners Messrs. Mills, Thompson and Ma- 
honey, among others. The effect of he.- 
action is to be seen in the steady advance 
in their professions and business of the com- 
pany. Growth is everywhere apparent, and 
the concern has become one of the largest 
of its kind in southeastern Massachusetts — 
ju.st what its founder had in mind when death 
closed his successful career. 

DANIEL HOWLAND CORNELL.— The 
subject of this biographical sketch is one of 
the best known men in Fall River. For years 
he has been prominent as a real estate oper- 
ator and one of the largest dealers in tene- 
ment house property in the city. Mr. Cornell 
was born in Dartmouth, Mass., February i. 
1830. His parents were Godfrey and Theresa 
Cornell, of Dartmouth, well known and 
highly respected citizens of that section of 
the State. When the family removed to 
Westport, Mass., Daniel was about six years 
of age, and received his early training under 
the watchful eye of his father, who was a 
practical man of affairs, and who believed 
in hard work and close application to win 
success. For years the young man worked 
on his father's farm, and in ls.")4 went lo 
New Bedford, where he an<l his brother. 
Pardon Cornell, engaged in the wholesale 
meat business, which was a success from 
the start. During the year 1853. Mr. Cor- 
nell was united in marriage to Miss Abby A 
Brownell. of Westport. Mass. The union 
was blessed with four chililren: William C. 



lib 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Arthur D., Lister B. and Winifred M. Cor- 
nell, who married J. Bion Richards. Mrs. 
Cornell died January 13, 1S81. In January, 
ISTG, Mr. Cornell dissolved partnership with 
his brother Pardon, and moved to Fall River, 
where he started inio ihe wholesale meat 
business ou his own account, taking his son 
William C. Cornell into business with him. 
The new firm prospered and extended its 
quarters from time to time until it was 
known as one of the largest in this vicinity. 
-Mr. Cornell retired from business in 1894, 
and since that time has operated in real es- 
tate. On January IS. 1S82. Mr. Cornell mar 
ried his second wife. Miss Emma C. Brown- 
ell, of Little Compton. R. I.: a woman of 




D.inicl Hoal.nd CorncB 

culture and relinenunt. Mrs. Corntll lias a 
large circle of friends in the city, and is i:i- 
teresled in art, music and literature. Her 
father, Ephriam W. Brownell, died several 
years ago. He was a well known merchant 
and trader. Mrs. Cornell's mother, Mrs. 
Sarah Hicks Brownell. is a daughter of Cap- 
tain Barney Hicks, who was a soldier in the 
Revolution, and a man of great bravery, and 
became famous for his daring exploits upon 
Ihe high seas. Sarah Hicks Brownell was a 
teacher during her younger days, and her 
memory is enriched by the many changis 
she has witnessed during her lifetime. She 
is still living, hale and hearty, and resides 
at AdamsviUe, R. I. Mr. and Mrs. Daniel H. 



Cornell reside in the family residence, at 
44 South street, this city. Daniel H. Cornell 
is a director in the Cornell, Arkwright and 
Davis Mills, and for years has been a prom- 
inent figure in the business affairs of Fall 
River. He is a man of sterling honor and 
integrity, and enjoys the confidence and es- 
teem of his business associates. 

JAMES H. WILSON.— No mention of the 
old families of this city would be complete 
which did not include the Wilson f^amily, of 
Steep Brook. David Wilson, the great-grand- 
father of the present James H. Wilson, was 
born in Rehoboth, and later he moved to 
the eastern part of Fall River, where he 
died in 1835. His son, Hezekiali, live.1 on 
the spot where the residence of J. H. Wil- 
son stands, and where Job T. Wilson was 
born. Job T. Wilson was one of the proni- 
iueni ciiixens of Fall River. By bis marriage 




James H. Wlkon 

with Deborah Dnrfee he was t'le fatrhcr of 
twelve children. All are dead except James 
H. Wilson and Mrs. Mary H. Todd. His 
w;fe died in ISSL and he survivel her twelve 
years. James H. Wilson was born here 
April 23. 1837. When he was very young 
the family moved into a house that several 
years before had served as an inn. It had 
been called "The C.reon Dragon." and had 
been the stopping place for stage coaches 
on their way from Newport to Boston. .After 
completing his school life Mr. Wilson be- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



came an emp;oyce of his father. In his twen- 
tieth year he struclc out for himself, show- 
ing then the traits that made him a man of 
marlv. In 1SG3 he became interested in the 
oil business, and made a success of it. Soon 
afterward Mr. Wilson opened a wood and 
coal yard, and the business then entered 
upon has been followed ever since, making 
him one of the oldest in that industry in 
the city. General teaming and trucking were 
also done, the moving of heavy machinery 
and the erection of iron stacks being a spe- 
cialty. Before the introduction of street cars, 
dwellers in the outskirts of the city were 
inconvenienced because there was no pub- 
lic means of conveyance from one part to 
another. Mr. Wilson, with characteristic 
enterprise and spirit, recognized the need 
and decided to meet it. In 1875 he opened 
an omnibus line, serving the people of the 
north and south ends. Public appreciation 
of the undertaking was emphatic, and the 
owner, who was hailed as a public 1)ene- 
factor, enjoyed a lucrative patronage for 
his omnibuses until the advent of the horse- 
car in 18S3, when they were withdrawn. He 
has 'been a hard-working man from the be- 
ginning of his industrious career, and has 
been successful, though he lost heavily by 
being a stockholder and endorser at the 
lime of the failure of the Sagamore and 
Border City mills. His first wife was Miss 
Eunice B. Parish, of this city. Sh3 died in 
18GC, leaving two daughters, Eunice Ellen 
rnd Emma Gertrude. In 187.5 Mr. Wilson 
married Miss Abbie M. Brown, of St. Clair. 
Mioh. She is the mother of .lames Harrison, 
Alice Edna and Ivouise Wilson. The son is 
connected with his father in the coal busi 
ness and associated with him in various 
interests. Mr. Wilson is a stockholder in 
eight cotton mills and various corporations. 
He made money in his early days by wise 
buying and selling of real estate, and judi- 
cious choice of offerings in mil! shares. His 
faith in the city of his birth now is no less 
pronounced than in previous years. He he- 
longs to no clubs nor societies, finding in 
them no substitutes for the comforts of an 
attractive and well-furnished homo and as- 
sociation with the members of his house- 
hold. 

DAVID MORRISON occupies a leading 
place among the oldest merchants of Fall 
River. By acting in good faith with the 
patrons of his store. 1)55-1157 Pleasani 
street, from the beginning of his career as 



a dealer in dry goods, and never deviating 
from the strict line of honesty and fair deal- 
ing, his name became a synonym for all the 
qualities that make the reliable merchant, 
and enter into the pillar of success. That 
is why, when the people of Flint village 
speak of David Moirison, it is .always with 
words of commendation. Mr. Morrison is 
a native of Glasgow, Scotland. He was 
born on April 25, 1845, and arrived in Fall 
River, the place in the new world upon 
which his thoughts centered, on November 
1, 3SC5. The young man did not have among 
his possessions an abundance of wealth, but 
he had the characteristics which mark his 
race. He buckled to the work before him 
of ira';in:4 a liviri; l;n(>wini; that idlcir.'is 




David Morruon 

v.'ould be no more prolific in results in Amer- 
ica than in Scotland. On July 11. 1874, Mr. 
Morrison started in the business which he 
has followed for so many years. He was 
one of the pioneers of dry-goods sellers in 
the eastern section of the city. The new 
merchant set out to meet public needs, anil 
a patronage was developed that ma<le the 
venture a success that has endured. Public 
life had no allurement for Mr. Morrison. 
On the contrary, he espoused a political 
cause which militated against preferment at 
the hands of fellow citizens. He was a rigid 
disbeliever in the virtues of alcoholic bever- 
ages, and his convictions led him to take 
the ground that the licensing of the sale 



218 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



of intoxicants is incompatible with the prin- 
ciples of good government. Naturally, he 
was led to advocacy of prohibition, which 
has no more ardent upholder in the com- 
munity. His time and his money he has 
siven freely in furtherance of the work of 
eradicating the drinlv habit by moral suasion 
and legislation. Discouragement has not 
weakened his ardor one jot. Ona who held 
relations so intimate with his neighbors as 
has been the case with Mr. Morrison, became 
their counsellor and servant on many oc- 
casions. That led him to seek a commis- 
sion as justice of the peace, and in 189S, the 
document was signe<l by Governor Roger 
Wolcott. At the expiration of the term in 
ISld.'j, Governor \V. L. Douglas attested his 
confidence in the worth of the justice by 



with Mary Dunnigan took place July 21, 
1SG9. It was a love match, which, in the 
alchemy of life, acquires new virtues. The 
home was blessed with seven children, all 
of whom live. They are Andrew Hill, for- 
merly a member of the State Senate; Grace 
Smith, .leanie, .Jessie Ailsa, Mary Eliza. 
David Clyde and William Dunnigan Mor- 
rison. Mrs. Morrison passed away June 11, 

ORIN BRADFORD WETHERELL.— 
Among the many problems nnniastcred in 
the early days of cotton manufacturing in 
Fall River, despite the deep study that was 
given to them by the fathers of the indus- 
try, was the serious one of providing a cov- 
ering for the top rolls used in spinning that 




Orin Br.idlord W^-llicr,:ll 



renewing the coiiiniission. The i)riiicil)al di- 
version of Mr. Morrison is found in inter- 
esting himself in the alTairs of the United 
Presbyterian Church, where he is a devout 
and faithful worshipper. He belongs to the 
Retail Merchants' Association, and is an 
honorary member of Clan Mc.Mpine, No, 
15:!, Order of Scottish Clans. His marriage 



would produce results commensurate with 
the needs of yarn making. Various expedi- 
ents were made use of without the real 
dilliculty being surmounted. At that time 
word came that Daniel H. Wetherell, who 
was connected with the Hopewell Mill, of 
Taunton, was an expert on the matter which 
was so perplexing, and he was called to this 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



219 



city by Lazanis Borden, who was agent of 
the Metacomet Manufacturing Company, to 
apply his knowledge to the covering of rolls, 
on the promise of a lucrative trade. There- 
fore, Mr. Wetherell became the first maker 
of roller coverings in Fall River, and prob- 
ably in the country, and laid the foundation 
of an industry with which the family name 
has been associated ever since that time. 
Almost all of the machinery used in roller 
establishments was made from Mr. Wether- 
ell's designs and ideas, a fact that proves 
very strongly the close grasp on the device 
he had from the very beginning. As the 
demands increased he found assistance 
necessary, and a nephew, another Daniel 
Wetherell, was engaged. The younger man 
developed under the tutelage of his relative, 
and when death removed the latter, he suc- 
ceeded to the business. Its growth was 
co-incident with the development of cotton 
manufacturing here, and the services of Orin 
B. Wetherell were secured and a partner- 
ship under the firm name of D. & O. B. 
Wetherell was established. When the senior 
partner died, in 1S93, Howard B. Wetherell, 
son of O. B. Wetherell, became his suc- 
cessor, and the buying trade came to know 
father and son as O. B. Wetherell & Son, 
the title still borne by the partners. Orin 
B. Wetherell is a native of Taunton, the date 
of his birth being February 14, 1830. His 
parents were Thomas and Caroline S.. the 
former dying 1869, and the mother 1879. 
When his schooling was finished, he mas- 
tered the art of shoe-making. In that voca- 
tion he was an expert, as he has been in 
the covering of rolls. An opportunity to 
better his lot presented itself in 1852. and 
Mr. Wetherell went to Stoughton to enter 
the employ of Martin Wales, a leading man- 
ufacturer of shoes. He was in that town, 
when, in 1858. his brother, Daniel, made a 
proijosition which, though involving a radi- 
cal change in bent of mind and industrial 
trend, was sufficiently attractive to lead to 
removal to the city where his home and all 
of his interests have t)een maintained for 
nearly half a century. Besides carrying on 
their own business, Wetherell & Son have a 
large interest in the Davis & McLane .Manu- 
facturing Company, which is engaged in the 
same line, entitling them to the claim of 
being the owners of the largest plant for 
covering rolls in the country. Their policy 
toward their employees is such that labor 
troubles are unknown, and workmen have 
grown gray in the service. Notwithstanding 



the closeness of his application to business. 
Mr. Wetherell finds time to show interest in 
clean sport. His predilection is tor a speedy 
norse, though he is not addicted to racing. 
In politics he is a staunch Republican, but 
devotion to that party has not led him to 
seek office. His interest in the progress of 
Fall River has been of the heartiest, and 
whatever influence he could wield has been 
exerted in behalf of its welfare and institu- 
tions. For the pessimist among his towns- 
men he has only words of reproof, for his 
contention is that if the men who are in 
business here are not upholders of the com- 
munity development is impossible. Mr. 
Wetherell's family consists of Mrs. Weth- 
erell, who was Miss Hannah M. Barney when 
they were married in Warren. R. I., in 1805. 
and Howard B.. his associate in business. 
He was the first initiate at the formation 
of King Philip Lodge of Masons, and the 
fraternity has none more loyal. The Weth- 
erell family has always attended the First 
Baptist Church. 

WILLIAM J. DUNN.— Half a dozen men 
of the type of William .1. Dunn would bring 
about the transformation of the business 
life of the city very quickly. Nearly every 
successful man, we find, began life in an 
humble way, and carved out their own for- 
tune by hard work and close application to 
business. Mr. Dunn is a conspicuous ex- 
ample of the self-made man. He was born in 
England, in 18G5, and has been in Fall RTver 
for twenty-four years. After leaving school 
he assisted his father, who carried on the 
second-hand machinery business in an hum- 
ble way. When his son was taken into the 
business he worked hard and long, and soon 
became an expert in the buying and selling 
of merchandise of all kinds, which neces- 
sitated the employment of a great deal of 
capital and any amount of shrewdness and 
iliplomacy to win success. Mr. Dunn was 
equal to the task set for himself, and soon 
won the confidence and esteem of the busi- 
ness men throughout Massachusetts. He 
has bought a great many mills and disposed 
of them at a good profit, and is considered 
a fine jud.ge of real estate values. For .sev- 
eral years he was engaged in the manufac- 
ture of absorbent cotton, in Tiverton, and 
conducted it successfully until 1895. when 
he sold the machinery, etc., to J. H. Estes 
& Sons. The Dunn block is a fine piece of 
property, nicely located, and shows the dis- 
cernment of the owner. In 1895. Mr. Dunn 



220 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



organized the Fall River Realty Trust, with 
holdings estimated at $300,000 for the bene- 
fii of his family. He has a large and at- 
tractive residence fronting the Seaconmet 
nver, Portsmouth, R. I. Mr. Dunn is hap- 
pily married to Miss Kate Smith, and they 
have a family of five children — four boys and 
one girl. His oldest son is a very bright 
young man and is now a student at the high 
school. 

HON. MILTON REBD.— This prominent 
member of the legal profession was born 
in Haverhill, Mass., October 1, ]848. He is 
the second son of William and Sophia 
(Ladd) Reed, and through both father and 
mother descended from old English stock. 
He received his education in his native 
place, and after a preparatory course en- 
tered Harvard L'niversity and was grad- 
uated with high honors in 18G8, the young- 
f£t man in the class. Soon after gradua- 
tion he came to Fall River and became edi- 
tor of the "Daily News," but subsequentlx 
studied law at the Harvard Law School and 
was admitted to practice in 1872. Since hr 
began the practice of the law in this city 
he has stood among t(he leading men in his 
profession, and is considered a great orator 
and debater. In 1880 he was chosen Sen 
ator for the Second Bristol District and mad ■ 
a reputation for himself at the State Hou.s' 
as a brilliant legislator. He declined a r( 
nomination the following year. In 18.S1 
and 1882 he was the Republican nominev 
for Mayor. Mr. Reed was defeated by a 
small majority. In 1884 he was elected 
Mayor of the city and served one term. Mr. 
Reed is a highly cultured .gentleman, and is 
always in great demand whenever any un- 
usual public function is given. He has few 
equals as a pU'blic speaker and his knowl- 
edge of general history and kindred works 
arc well known by the citizens of Fall River. 

.KJllN \VKST.\M., .M. D.. belongs to the 
large and prominent class of self-made men 
who have made their impress upon the in- 
dustrial, commercial and professional life 
of Fall River from the very earliest days. 
He is a good type of the man who, by en- 
ergy and application, combined with ambi- 
tion and resolution, obtains a top position 
on the ladder of success and does not de- 
scend. He was born in England, May 10, 
ISfil, and has been in this city for twenty- 
three years. In that time he has made a 
name as a citizen alive to his duties and 
as a physician of skill. He supplemented 



his schooling by a course in the Greenwich 
Academy, after which he became a student 
in the Dartmouth Medical School, in Han- 
over, N. H., where he obtained his diploma 
in June, 1891. He was not long in getting 
a footing as a practitioner and securing a 
standing in the eyes of medical men. His 
reputation and practice have expanded with 
years, until he has become one of the most 
successful doctors in the city. Politics has 
a fascination for the doctor. He is one of 
the leading members of the Republican 
party. In 1898 he represented the Second 
Ward as a member of the Board of Alder- 
men. Re-election followed, and in 1899 the 
Alderman had the honor of being selected 
by Ills coIka,?ii<? t.) lie c'iair".'a:i. He filled 



IP -* *^ 



\. 




John WcstaU. M. D. 

the post with ability, and made a creditable 
record for practical interest in municipal 
affairs. His intimate knowledge of govern- 
mental n;atlers has brought his name 
prominently forward in connection with the 
mayoralty. Dr. Westall is connected with 
the Massachusetts, Southern Massachusetts 
and Fall River Medical Societies, the Free 
Masons, the Independent Order of Odd Fel- 
lows, the Knights of Pythias and the Sons 
of St. George. His marriage with Miss 
Elizal>elh E. Hargraves. of this city, took 
place in .Inly. 1883. Their home is at O:!" 
South Main street, wiiere the doctor also has 
his ofllce. They have one daughter, Lillian 
G. Westall. 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



221 



REt'BEN COOK SMALL, JR.— In the 
person of Reuben Cook Small, Jr., Fall River 
has a type of the man who, after achieving 
a large measure of success in business, dup- 
licated the record when entrusted with the 
responsibility of public office. Municipal 
history contains no choaicle of an achieve- 
ment in the city equaling that to ttie credit 
of the subject of this sketch. It was com- 
mon knowledge what he helped to accom- 
plish in the manufacturing line, but few 
realized his capabilities as an administrator 
of a trust and his aptitude for public life 



in the Durfee mill No. 2 as a backboy. His 
ambition to get ahead was strong, and his 
industry and trails attracted the favorable 
notice of departmental overseers. Promo- 
tion was frequent, and ultimately he became 
overseer of the cloth room in the Richard 
Borden Mfg. Co. Mr. Small thought that he 
saw a way for still further progress by sup- 
plying mills with banding and cotton ropes. 
In 1S85 he and his brother, Rlisha Holmes 
Small, had a shed built at 510 Prospect 
street. A small amount of machinery was 
installed, and with one helper the brothers 




Re 



Co. 



until he was induced lo take a hand in the 
management of the park system and the 
cemeteries belonging to the people. Mr. 
Small is a native of Provincetovvtn. The 
date of his birth is March 23, 1S59. The 
paternal Small conducted a grocery, grain 
and lumber business in the cape town until 
a few years ago, when he retired to spend 
the remainder of his days as an honored 
member of the household of hi.'i daugiiter, 
4>i Hillarde street. Reuben C. Small, Jr., 
Ijecame a resident of thi.s city in 1S72. Aft- 
er a brief schooling he secured employment 



ik Sm.lll. J,. 

slarlecl btisaiei^s. Their principal capital 
was represented by unlimited energy and 
confidence, and constant concern for the 
quality of their productions. That made a 
reputation for the firm, and it was not very 
long before the Small Bros.' rope and band- 
ing were in demand by mill superintendents. 
Increased orders entailed enlargement of 
facilities and quarters, leading to the erec- 
tion of the large building now in use. the 
employment of about 100 hands, an output 
of banding, tubular braids and spool tapes 
of over 1,000,000 pounds, and a patronage 



222 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



that extends to all over the country. In 
politics Mr. Small is a Republican. He 
served as a member of the city committee 
in 189G, and has been active at the caucuses 
in the interest of good nominations. When 
the park commission was created one of the 
first names considered by Mayor George 
Grime was that of R. C. Small, Jr., who was 
recommended strongly for membership as 
a citizen who could be relied upon to look 
for results with the appropriation and not 
bo influenced by political e.\pediency. He 
was nominated, and was the unanimous 
choice of the citizens associated with him 
for the chairmanship. The position im- 
posed arduous duties upon the holder, but 
Mr. Small was interested in the department, 
and he gave freely of his time to the city. 
During his three years of service, he held 
the chair without challenge. The exigencies 
of politics brought about his retirement, 
sreatly to the regret of leading citizens, who 
united in a petition to Ma.vor .John T. Cough- 
lin to retain Mr. Small. Had he a free 
hand there is iio doubt that the executive 
would have responded favorably to the ap- 
plication, for he shared in the general ap- 
preciation of the commissioner's work. It 
was owing to Mr. Small's close supervision 
of the improvement that the park system 
entired upon a stage of development that 
will make it in future years one of the de- 
lights of the city. He is connected with 
Narragansett Lodge of Masons and Friendly 
Union Lodge of Odd Fellows, and worships 
.n St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal Church. 
He was married .June 7, 1882, to Annie A. 
Standish. a nienil)er of the Myles Standish 
family of colonial history. The fruits of 
the union are two children — Edith Standish 
Small, the wife of Raymond D. Borden, a 
son of Eric W. Borden, and Norman Cook 
Small, the baby of the family. Mr. Small is 
a home-loving citizen, and finds his chief 
pleasure in driving about the country witli 
tlie members of his family when the weath- 
er is suited to outdoor life. 

SAMUEL WATSON is well-known and 
highly respecto<l by the cotton manufac- 
turers of Fall River. He was born in New 
Castle, England, and came here in 1851. 
whore he foun<l a job as useful man In the 
old Robeson Mill, the only position he could 
find at the lime, and worked there for about 
ten months, after which he secured employ- 
ment as a second hand in the mule room of 
the Metacomet Mills, where he worked for 



four years, after which time he went on a 
vacation to his old home in England and 
remained three months. Mr. Watson came 
back to Fall River and took charge of the 
spinning room of the old Robeson Mill, 
which had been changed from a print works 
to a cot.ton mill, and remained for about 
ten months, when he once more changed, 
and took charge of the spinning room at the 
Linen Mill, where he located for three 
years. Having accumulated some money 
and being desirous of getting along in the 
world, Mr. Watson started in business for 
himself as a manufacturer of banding and 
ropes, locating his establishment on Mul- 
berry street, on the old Blackstone lot, where 
he remained for a number of years, furnish- 
ing banding and ropes to all the mills in the 
city. Mr. Wat.son found that it would be 
impossilile to make his business a paying 
success without waltr power, so he decided 
to give up hand work and locate in a build- 
ing where he could get the necessary power 
to make his business pay. He secured from 
Richard Borden part of the machine shop in 
the Anawan -Mill, where he was furnished 
with water power, and the proper facilities 
to conduct his business on a larger scale, 
and began the manufacture of spindle band- 
ing. The management of the Linen Mill 
wanted Mr. Watson to give up his manu- 
lacturing business and come back to them 
and take charge of their spinning depart- 
ment. This he refused to do, but compm- 
mised by retaining his business and taking 
charge of the spinning department of the 
Linen Mill, where he rcimalned for two 
ytars. When the Tecuniseh Mill was erect- 
ei Mr. Watson took charge of the spinning 
with the same privilege of continuing his 
private manufacturing business, and also at 
an increase of salary. When the Merchants' 
Mill was started Mr. Watson was engaged 
at a still larger salary to take charge of 
the spinning department, always keeping up 
his manufacturin.g iHisiness and coming and 
going as ho thought best. He remained at 
the .Merchants' Mill for two years, and then 
returned to England for rest and recreation, 
where he ronmined for nine months. Mr. 
Watson came back homo to Fall River very 
much rofroshod. and. with .lames Warring 
and Daniel McGowen. organized and built 
the Narragansett Mills and became superin- 
tenilent. For five years he -worked hard 
and finally had to slop on account of the 
condition of his health. He returned to 
England, whore the climate soeuied to agree 




Samuel Watson 



224 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



with him and stayed for four years, travel- 
ing in various countries of the world. In 
18S1 Mr. Watson returned to Fall River and 
became superintendent of the Flint Mills, 
remaining in that position for three years, 
when ill health forced him to retire from 
active labor. Mr. Watson was married to 
Miss Elizabeth Rowboltom, of Glossop, Eng- 
land. She died in 1892. The family resi- 
dence is at 979 Easton avenue. It is a fine 
old place with well-kept lawns and flowers, 
and trees abound everywhere. Mr. Watsjn 
is a Kepul)lican in poJiTcs and was a-.)- 



ncw Kasion avenue school, "The Samuel 
Watson School," in his honor. Mr. Watson's 
life ha.s been busy and eventful, and it 
shows what can be accomplished by hard 
work and sincerity of purpose. He is a 
credit to old England, the land of his birth, 
and an honor to the city of his adoption. 

HUGO ADEI^\Rn DUBUQUE. — Al- 
though it is the boast of the people of the 
United States that "this is God's country," 
and that its in.?titutions of learning and 
con".n;trce are incomparable both for the 




Hon, H..:>o ^d:'.l-J D. 

i-oiniej by .Mayor Greene one of iho first 
water conimis.sioners, serving four years, 
ile superintended the building of the cof- 
fer dam at the Narrows bridge, and has 
alwa.vs taken an interest in the progress of 
Fall River. Mr. Watson presented a 
beautiful marble bust of Dickens to the 
Public Library, and it was he who gave the 
soldiers' monument lo Richard Borden Post 
No. 4fi, Department of Massachusetts, which 
adorns the entrance lo South Park. .Mayor 
.John T. Coiighlln rccogiiizizng his worth 
as a public-spirited clli/.on has named the 



S.iqu;, C(;y Solicitor 

standard of excello;:ce a:'.. I ijr tlieir pro- 
ducts, it has to be admitted that good 
things come from other countries and suf- 
fer nothing in comparison with those 
whicB are of our own sj:I. What has come 
to us from the Dominion of Canada, when 
tested in the crucible of experience and 
demonstration, has bepn found to have 
merit of the kind that endures. This is true 
especially of its men and women. A strik- 
ing figure among those who became resi- 
dents of this cUy !s Hii.go .A.delard Dubuque, 
who has shown himself an able lawyer and 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



225 



a scholarly and public-spirited gentleman, 
and belongs to the family of the founder of 
Dubuque, Iowa. The foundation of his 
largeness was laid deeply and soundly in 
the schools of Cavignac, where he was born, 
November 4, 1S55, the son of Moise and 
Esther (Matthieu) Dubuque and in a col- 
lege in St. Hyacinths, Que. His collegiate 
course completed, Mr. Dubuque became a 
resident of Fall River in 1870. Seven 
years later he received the degree of 
bachelor of laws at Boston University, and 
the same year 'he was admitted to the bar. 
.Just as soon as the law would permit, he 
threw off allegiance to the government of 
Gireat Britain and enrolled himself as a 
good citizen of the United States. With 
him to be a voter meant the serious view 
of its duties and responsibilities. Besides 
exercising the suffrage faithfully liiraself, 
he appealed to his countrymen so effective- 
ly that they partook of his enthusiasm and 
energy, and a naturalization movement de- 
veloped which has continued to this day, 
resulting in a large increase in the voting 
population. Mr. Dubuque made his debut 
as a candidate for an elective office in 1889. 
when he was nominated and elected to the 
Legislature. After an interim of eight years 
he was induced again to offer himself as a 
public servant and lawmaker, and the repre- 
sentative district accepted him willingly. 
His career at the State house was marked 
with such signal ability that he was chosen 
for another term. An invidious distinction 
among citizens who have been sent to the 
Legislature is unavoidable, because it has 
happened oftenest that men of mediocre 
attainments than those measuring the full 
stature of qualiflcation have appeared from 
Fall River. In the smaller list of repre- 
sentative men the name of H. A. Dubuque 
stands out prominently. To natural aliility 
he joined an unflagging interest in the work 
of a representative, and rapidly ros? to 
fame as a stajtesman. During the session 
of 1S9S, the Dubuque law, so-called, was 
enacted. Its real title is "Equitable process 
after judgment." It compels a man to pay 
debts for necessaries or labor by install- 
ments according to his means, and has 
proved to be a legislative benefaction to 
debtor and creditor alike. The City Council 
in 1900 elected Mr. Dubuque by joint ballot 
to the office of City Solicitor. To its duties 
he carried the same qualities he manifested 
as a practitioner and law-maker, being the 
first appointee to the legal department under 



the charier adopted in 1902, and succeeding 
himself in the administration of Mayor John 
T. Coughlin, which began in 1905. In 190.5, 
on the recommendation of Lieutenant-Gov- 
ernor Guild, the solicitor was named by Gov- 
ernor William L. Douglas as first civilian on 
the commission created to erect a- monument 
to Chevalier de St. Sauvens, who died in 
Boston in 1778, during the American Revolu- 
tion. He is looked upon as a speaker of 
magnetic force in French and English. Un- 
til the engrossing cares of his profession 
precluded the acceptance of invitations, he 
was in demand for twenty-five years as a 
lecturer on the Constitution and institutions 
of the LTnited States, to which he gave care- 
ful thought. Mr. Dubuque possesses one of 
the best collection of books on the history 
and philosophy of law, which he keeps in- 
creasing by importations from Europe and 
intelligent selections at home. His general 
library will bear comparison with any in the 
city. A book is in preparation by him which 
will treat extensively of the history of per- 
sonal liberty. He stands high in the legal 
profe-ssion, and is regarded as a leader 
among his French compatriots in New Eng- 
land, having taken part in every convention 
of French-Canadians in the eastern States 
since 1879, and served as president of the 
Franco-American Historical Society, which 
meets in Boston twice a year. His married 
life has been of the happiest. He took for 
his wife, in ISSl, Annie M. Coughlin, a sister 
of ex-Mayor John W. Cou.ghlin. and a cousin 
of Mayor John T. Coughlin. Three daugh- 
ters have blessed their union — Pauline, Hel- 
ene and Marie. The family home is at 263 
Walnut street, and the latch-string is always 
on the outside for fi-iends and acquaintances. 
There the attorney is to be found when not 
occupied in municipal affairs and legal mat- 
ters. 

JOHN B. TRATNOR, M. D.— Coming here 
a stranger in 1897, opening an office for the 
practice of medicine, and in nine years at- 
taining the place he now holds, such in epit- 
ome is the story of the career of Dr. John B. 
Trainor. Skill, hard work and persistency 
are the foundation. Dr. Trainor is a native 
of Prince Edward Island, Canada. After 
finishing the course in the public schools 
of his birth-place, he enrolled as a student 
of Prince of Wales College. At that insti- 
tution he made up his mind to become a 
physician. To gratify that aspiration, the 
young man entered Canada's greatest 
institution of learning. McGill University. 



226 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



of Montreal, a diploma from which con- 
tains the assurance that the possessor 
has been well grounded in the branches 
of learning that are taught there. Where 
to locate, the one question that en- 
gages the serious attention of the young 
man standing ou the threshold of his 
career, and with ambition to be somebody, 
was answered by Dr. Trainor coming to Fall 
River. The doctor is not one of those who 
are prone to say that they might have chosen 
better, for his success has been such as to 
satisfy the most ardent longing to get ahead. 



journey to Boston or New York for such at- 
tention find all that they require through 
the enterprise of Dr. Trainor. Politics has 
no attraction for Dr. Trainor. Not only is he 
a believer in independent voting, but he prac- 
tices his belief. His home and his profession 
absorb his time. He was married happily, 
April 25, 1900, to Miss Margaret Ella Brady, 
daughter of one of the early settlers in Globe 
village, and a successful teacher in the city 
schools. They have an attractive home at 
1521 South Main street, where the physi- 
cian's ofRce is located. He is examiner for 




lohn B. Tr.i.nor. M. I> 



He give.s special attention to general physi- 
cal therapy, including electro-therapy, ther- 
macro-lhcrapy, mechano-therapy, hydro-ther- 
apy, etc. The physician has installed an up- 
lo-date equipment in these linos in Ste. Anne"s 
Hospital, where he superintends this kind 
of work, in addition to attending to the du- 
ties devolving on liim as a member of the 
surgical staff of the Institution. His office 
at 1.521 South Main street contains all the 
improved devices for the mo.st emcient treat- 
ment with therapy. As a consequence, per- 
sons w'ho have been obliged In the past to 



the Equitable Life Assurance Society, Secur- 
ity Mutual of New York and Columbia Na- 
tional Life of Boston, surgeon for the City 
Hospital, and physician for St. Vincent's Or- 
lihanage and surgeon to Ste. Anne's Hospital. 
Dr. Trainor finds diversion by attending the 
meetings of the Massachusetts Medical So- 
ciety, Fall Ulver Medical Society, Knights 
of Columbus. Hoyal .Ai-cauum. Massachu- 
setts Catholic Order of Foresters, Ancient 
Order of Hibernians, Foresters of America, 
and the Clover Club. He takes an active 
interest in all of these organizations. 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



227 



HON. FRANK M. CriACE, Senator from 
the Second Bristol District, which comprises 
the city of Fall River and the towns of Digh- 
ton, Somerset and Swansea, is the son of C. 
Fredericli Chace, a native of Swansea, and 
Mary E. Tobey, of Freetown, and was born 
in Broolilyn, N. Y., April 10, 1S5G. After 
graduation from the polytechnic institute 
there he went into business and was em- 
ployed by James Fislce, Jr., at the Erie Rail- 
road offices until 1872. He then engaged in 
the oil business with H. B. Cooper until 1S79. 
when he removed to this city, where his 
father was paymaster at- the Slade Mills. 
From 1879 till 1SS2 he represented the Vac- 
uum Oil Company here, and from 1SS2 till 




Hon. Frank M. Chacc 

isns was manager of the branch office here 
of J. A. Foster & Co., a Providence jewelry 
house. When he tooU charge the store was 
doing a business of $12,000 a year. Mr. 
Chace doubled this during the first twelve 
months, and when he retired was doing a 
business of $67,000 a year. He had been 
more or less in politics for some years, but 
until 1898 had held no office. He was 
elected to the Common Council from Ward 
Seven, in 1899 and again in 1900, and in 
1901 was sent to the Massachusetts Legis- 
lature, where he was made a member of the 
important committee on cities. He was re- 
elected in 1902 and 1903, and in both terms 
served on the committees of street railways 
and on banks and banking. In 1904 he was 



elected to the State Senate, superseding a 
Democrat who had the previous year defeat- 
ed the Republican candidate by 900 votes. 
Senator Chace received a majority of 1,100. 
He was a member of the committees on pub- 
lic charitable institutions and banks and 
banking, and chairman of the committee on 
printing. He was re-elected in 1905 and 190G. 
and became chairman of the public char- 
itable committee, in which position he has 
been able to be of much assistance to his 
constituents in Fall River. Although a sin- 
cere and earnest Republican, Senator Chace 
has always believed that in public office he 
represented no one party or section of the 
people, but all, and has worked untiringly 
for the best interests of his constituents. In 
Ills position as a member of the committee 
on public charitable institutions he has been 
able to serve many in this city who have 
oeen in need of aid, and has been glad to do 
so. He has been especially active in urging 
I he need of a consumptives' hospital in this 
section of the State within easy reach of the 
mill people of Fall River. He has been a 
consistent friend of the labor interests, and 
as a member of the committee on banks and 
banking has been able to be of material as- 
sistance to the financial institutions and to 
check ill-advised legislation. Personally, he 
is a warm-heartjd. humane gentleman, ex- 
ceedingly courteous, obliging and unassum- 
ing. His repeated election to office is pr(x>f 
of his strong popularity. Senator Chace 
was married when he was eighteen years 
of age, to Amanda L. Dubois, of Flushing, 
Long Island. They have had twelve children, 
of whom six are living, three boys and 
three girls. 

JAMES MARCUS SWIFT was born in 
Ithaca, Michigan, November 3, 1873, being 
the eldest son of Marcus George Barker and 
Mary Duncan (Milne) Swift. His ancestoi-s 
on both sides were among the early settlers 
in this country, some of wihom were dis- 
tinguished in its early history. Though born 
in Michigan, Mr. Swift, on his father's side, 
traces his ancestry directly back to William 
Swyft. who landed on Cape Cod, in HVM). 
His father was born in Michigan March 12, 
iS4S. After spending two years in the army 
during the Civil War, he attended Adrian 
College, and graduated from the University 
of .Michigan Law School in 1872. In Decem- 
ber. 1S74, he removed to Fall River, where 
he held a prominent position in all matters 
in which he was interested, and was a leader 



228 



HISTORY OF FALL RTVER 



in professional, business ami political circles 
until the time of his death, February 22, 
1902. He was, for sixteen years, a partner 
of the Honorable Henry K. Braley, now Jus- 
tice of the Supreme Coi:.t of Massachusetts, 
and was for a number of years on the school 
committee, and was prominent as command- 
er of the Richard Borden Post, G. A. R., and 
.Judge Advocate General of the Department 
of Massachusetts, G. A. R., in 1897. After 
the appointment of his partner, Mr. Braley, 
to the Bench, ho formed a partnership with 
Honorable George Grime, under the firm 



prominent in athletic, musical and fraternity 
circles. In September, 1895, he entered the 
Harvard Law School, where he pursued his 
legal studies to the end of the second year, 
being compelled to leave the law school and 
enter his father's office, by reason of the 
latter's illness. The firm of Swift & Grime 
has continued since the death of .Mr. Swift's 
father, the other members of the firm now 
being ex-Mayor George Grime and John A. 
Kerns. In January, 1899, he was appointed 
.\ssistant District Attorney for the Southern 
Dislrict of Massachusetts, by the Honorable 




James M 

name of Swift & Grime, into which firm the 
subject of this sketch was taken upon his 
leaving the law school. James M. Swift was 
educated in the public schools of I'^ll River, 
graduated from the 13. M. C. Durfeo High 
School in 1891 class historian, at the age of 
seventeen years. In Ihe fall he entered the 
Michigan State Normal School at Ypsilanti. 
Michigan, and the following year he enlero:l 
I ho sophomore class of the I'niversity of 
Michigan, at Ann Arbor, from which he grad- 
uated with the degree of Bachelor of Arts 
in June, 1895. While in college, ho was 



Lemuel Le Baron Holmes, of New Bedford, 
then District Attorney, and now an Associ- 
ate Justice of the Superior Court, and he 
held this office for three and one-half years. 
I'pon the appointment of Judge Holmes to 
the Bench, Mr. Swift served for a time as 
acting District Attorney, and in the fall of 
1902. after a spirited campaign, he received 
the Republican nomination for the office of 
District Attorney, and was elected by a large 
nmjority to serve out the unexpired term of 
.ludge Holmes, being the youngest man who 
ever held such an oflice in the Common- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



229 



wealth, lu Nu. > iiiln r. litiM, he was re-eit-cl- 
ea Uistnci AUorney lor the lerni of ihree 
years, which office he now holds. In iy02, 
.>.r. awiU was appoiutet! the only Master in 
Cnancery in Bristol County, to succeed his 
lather, and he also succeeded him as a trus- 
tee of the Citizens' Savings Bank and a mem- 
her and secretary of the Board of Invest- 
uient of the same institution, which iwsi- 
iions he still holds. Succeeding to the ex- 
tensive practice of his father, Mr. Swift 
has taken a prominent part in court trials, 
and has been notably successful in cases 
Lefore juries, both civil and criminal. 
S.nce his return to Fall River, he has 
a. ways been interested in political matters, 
taA.ng an active part for the Republican 
party. Mr. Swift's many and varied inter- 
ests are shown by his membership in the 
lu. lowing organizations: First Congrega- 
t.onal Church and Society, Congregational 
Cub. of which he is president; King Philip 
Lodge, F. & A. M., Fall River Royal Arch 
( hapter, Fall River Council, Royal and Se- 
lect Masters, Godfrey De Bouillon Command- 
eiy of Knights Templar, Past Chancellor of 
Star Lodge, Knights of Pythias; Fall River 
Lodge of Elks. Central Republican Club, of 
Fall River; State Republican Club, Queque- 
chan Club, University Club, Harvard Club. 
Fall River Yacht Club, Fall River Golf Club, 
B. M. C. Durfee High School Alumni Asso- 
ciation and Athletic Association, the Massa- 
chusetts Club, and the Boston Aihletic 
Club, Mr. Swift is unmarried. 

WILLIAM C. D.WOL was born .January 5, 
ISUC. in Fall River, and while a lad entered 



ii=»«4x 




William C. Davol (Dcccas.d) 

t'ne Troy Mill, which at this time was just 
beginning operations. He was made over- 
.-eerof the spinning in 1813, and superintend- 



ent in 1S27, which [losition he retained until 
1811, when he became a partner in the firm 
of Hawes, Marvel & Davoi. Mr. Davol was 
an inventive genius ,an(l many parts of the 
machinery which is in use to-day was in- 
vented by him. He was constantly at work 
on different parts of machinery, improving 
and using his skill for the betterment of the 
cotton industry. Mr. Davol was for many 
years connected with the various coriiora- 
tions of this city, and at his death was one 
of the leading men in Southern Massachu- 
setts. 

JA.MES CHARLFS BRADY.— The leader 
in the drug trade of Fall River is James C. 
Brady. This distinction he obtained by dint 
of personal energy and endeavor. He is a 
son of Fall River, where he was born July 
5, 18G2. His parents, James K. and Mary 
Brady, came from Ireland in 18-13. The 
father died in 1890, and the mother in 1901. 
leaving six children. .Mr. Brady entered the 
high school as a member of the class of 
1875, having graduated that year from the 
.Morgan street school. On completing his 
third year term, he embarked in the business 
in which he as attained so much promi- 
liince and success, becoming a clerk in the 
drug store of H. G. Webster in the Granite 
Block. Mr. Webster's successor was B. F. 
Riddell. for whom the clerk worked until 
June, lS8(j. Mr. Brady had become a skill- 
ed pharmacist by that time, and he decided 
to open a store for himself in the location 
which he has ever since been occupied. 
Business increased so rapidly that in a 
short time an adjoining store in the block 
was engaged, and both made into one. re- 
sulting in the Brady establishment becom- 
ing the largest of the kind in Bristol County. 
In January. 1903. another store, situate<l at 
the corner of South Main and Spring streets, 
was opened, and both are in successful op- 
eration under the personal management of 
the owner. Although deeply engrossed in 
business. Mr. Brady finds time to give to the 
welfare of the city of his nativity. Public 
spirit and not ambition caused him to ac- 
cept the tender of a place as a member 
of the Overseers of the Poor from Mayor 
./ohn W. Coughlin. in 1894. Siicoessive Ma- 
yors voiced the confidence manifested by 
the executive who selected Jlr. Brady, his 
last commission being handed lo him by 
Mayor John T. Coughlin. His work on the 
board is not perfunctory: he is in close touch 
with every detail and frequently visits the 
instilulions of which the poor department 



23d 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



has charge. The druggist is a prominent 
factor in the United Drug Company of Bos- 
ton, which he serves as a member of the 
directorate and the executive committee. 
He is a member of the Massachusetts Phar- 
maceutical Association, was for two years 
president of the Retail Merchants' Associa- 
tion, in the purjxjses of which he is a leader, 
and belongs to the Clover and Quequechan 
Clubs. In 1SS9 his marriage with Miss Kate 
A. Cunneen, a teacher in the local schools 
and daughter of James E. Cunneen, one of 
the oldest of the city's manufacturers, took 



came to the I'nited States and settled in 
New Haven. In that city Father Hughes 
received his schooling and prepared for col- 
lege. He selected the priesthood for a 
vocation and entered St. Charles' College in 
Maryland. The course was completed in 
1800 with distinguished honore, and the stu- 
dent immediately proceeded to Rome for 
his ecclesiastical training, being one of the 
first students received at the American col- 
lege in the eternal city. The studies lasted 
six years, the ceremony ot ordination being 
performed February 24, ISGC, by the vice- 




Jjmcs Ch 

place. They have two childruu — Agnes C, 
16, and Catherine C. 2 years. The family 
home is one of the attractive buildings of 
(he hill section of the city, and has all the 
comforts which a husband and a wife ot 
refined taste could choose. Mr. Brady's sur- 
viving brother is Rev. John E. Brady, pastor 
of a Catholic church in Phenix, R. I. 

REV. CHRISTOPHER HUGHES, D. U.. 
is pastor of SI. Mary's parish and rector of 
the cathedral. He is a native of Ireland. 
Not long after his birth, in 1S|1. the family 



Us Brjdy 

regent of the I'ope, the archbishop of Petra. 
The new pritst returned to America and 
was apiKiinted to a curacy in New Haven. 
Two years later he was transferred to 
Providence and created a pastor. That post 
was filled successfully for nineteen years. 
.\n able administrator was desired by Bishop 
Hendricken to look after the affairs of St. 
Mary's parish In this city The pastor, Rev. 
ICdward Murphy, had died In 1S87, while 
visiting the paternal home in Ireland. The 
bishop considered that Father Hughes was 
sp(H'ially qualified for the onerous duties. 




. Christophc- Hughe; 



232 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



and sent him to Fall River Sepieuibtr 1 of 
the same year. There was a large debt on 
the church, and the parish property was in 
urgent need of attention. A minister of 
less energy and capacity than the new 
pastor would have been demoralized at the 
magnitude of the task, but he took the 
parishioners into his confidence and made 
it clear that a business policy would be ap- 
plied to the affairs of the parish and ad- 
hered to. The appeal to the pride, loyalty 
and faith of the people was productive of 
good results. All the plans formulated by 
Father Hughes had their hearty approval 
and support. It was not very long before 
the church and school had been overhauled, 
the debt extinguished, and additional prop- 
erty acquired with a view to the future 
needs of the church. The growth in spirit- 
uality was coincident with the material im- 
provement of the parish, for the worship- 
pers at the church became imbued with the 
religious fervor and zeal of the pastor, and 
responded earnestly to the efforts put forth 
by him and his assistants to make religious 
profession practical. The happiest incident 
in the life of the priest was the service of 
consecration which followed the discharge 
of the last obligation for which the church 
was responsible. In recognition of the work 
and piety of the clergyman, he was made a 
dignitary of the church by Pope Leo XIII. 
Sickness has interfered with the discharge 
of pastoral duties for over a year, but, 
though his presence is not apparent, his in- 
fluence pervades the administration. Rev. 
Dr. Hughes is a trustee of the public library. 
Since his accession to the board his per- 
sonality has been a vital force in the con- 
duct of that institution. 

RIGHT REVERRND BISHOP WILLIAM 
STANG. — In September, 1903, the authorities 
of the Roman Catholic church at the papal 
see created the diocese of Fall River, to in- 
clude the larger portion of southeastern 
.Massachusetts. In February following Rev. 
William Stang, of Providence, was selected 
for the bishopric froiu a list which comprised 
the names of leading pastors in the Provi- 
dence diocese. His consecration took place 
the same year with impressive ceremonies. 
Bishop Stang was born in the province of 
Haden, Germany, in 1S54. His early educa- 
tion was obtained In the Institutions of his 
native country, and he finished his philos- 
ophy and theology in the Catholic I'niversity 
In l.ouvain, Belgium. There he was or.lained 



lo the prii^.sthood in 1S78, and assigned im- 
mediately to the Providence diocese under 
Bishop Hendricken. After some years as 
an assistant at the cathedral in Providence, 
he became pastor of a church in Cranston. 
R. I., in 1S84. His return to his first charge 
took place subsequently. For the period be- 
tween 189.5 and 189S, Bishop Stang was pro- 
fessor of theology in the Belgian University, 
a position he assumed in an effort to re- 
pair his health. In which undertaking he was 
successful. The return to Providence, in 
1898, was marked by his association with 
the missionary band called the diocesan 
apostolate. .\11 his energy and enthusiasm 
was given to the work, which was product- 
ive of edifying results for the parishes in 
the diocese. In recognition of Bishop 
Slang's zeal and administrative ability. 
Bishop Harkins, who succeeded Bishop Hen- 
dricken, appointed him to the pastorate of 
St. Edward's Church, in Providence. It was 
while engaged in the work of that parish 
that he was honored by elevation to the 
episcopate. The bishop is noted for his 
great learning as well as for the intensity 
of his faith. He is a forcible writer and a 
voluminous contributor to religious litera- 
ture, and speaks Latin, French, Engllsli, 
German and Italian with fluency. His one 
ambition is to promote the salvation of 
souls and the welfare of the Catholics of 
the diocese. 

MICHAEL KELLY, M. D.— In the person 
of Dr. Michael Kelly this city has one of its 
most public-spirited citizens; a college grad- 
uate of high attainments, a student of the 
very best in literature, and a physician of 
skill, versatility and courage. Withal there 
is none more modest, none less desirous of 
notoriety, none more deferential towards the 
ethics of his profession, and nobody with 
greater respect for the amenities and others' 
opinions. Dr. Kelly is a son of the Emerald 
Isle, where he was born April 20. 1S5G. He 
attended the schools there until he was four- 
teen years of age. In 1S70 he came to Fall 
River, and In 1874 entered Holy Cross Col- 
lege, in Worcester, Mass., where he was 
graduated In the class of 1S79 and received 
the degree of bachelor of arts. In June, 
1S9(), the college conferred upon him the 
degree of master of arts. In ISSl Dr. Kelly 
be^an the study of medicine in Bellevue 
Hospital medical college. He took the full 
course of three years, devoting all the time 
available lo preparing himself for his life's 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



2^ 



vocation. There was no yielding to the 
allurements of stinient lite, for Dr. Kell.v 
understood the seriousness of the problem 
of making his way in the world with the 
endowment of brain and brawn which he 
possessed, and lefi no way open for repining 
over neglected opportunity. The fruit of 
his application and zeal was gathered in 
1.SS5, when tihe diploma of doctor of medicine 
was handed him at the finish of the course, 
and he was enabled to satisfy his ambition 
to start hi.=! professional career in the home 
of his adoption. Choice of a location was 



in the deliberations of the local body and 
showing an intelligent interest in the most 
abstruse topics. He is also a member of 
and examiner for several fraternal organiza- 
tions and medical bodies. Mayor John \V. 
Coughlin appointed him City Physician in 
1S90. By virtue of the office he became 
chairman of the Board of Health for three 
years. Perfunctory work was not permitted 
during his connection with that body. The 
record then made led to Dr. Kelly's selection 
as member of the hoard for another term of 
three years by .Mayor .John T. Coughlin in 




Micliacl Kelly, M. D. 



not unwise, as has been demonstrated by the 
large measure of success that the doctor 
enjoys. He is a specialist in the treatment 
of diseases of children. During an epidemic 
of small-pox in 1899, Dr. Kelly was drafted 
for service by the Board of Health. His 
knowledge of the scourge proved a blessing 
bo the city and those afflicted, for out of 
sixty cases treated there was but one death 
at the pest-house. Dr. Kelly belongs to the 
Fall River Medical Society, the American 
Medical Association, and the Massachusetts 
Medical Society, Ijeing especially prominent 



190G. Benevolences appeal strongly to the 
practical sympathies of the physician, and 
his spare time is offered freely to the 
Union Hospital Training School for Nurses, 
the Seaside Home, for puny infants, and 
St. Ann's Hospital. He is also on the staffs 
of the City Hospital and the Union Hos- 
pital. The wedding of Dr. Michael Kelly 
and Miss Caroline Cantwell, in 1890. was 
one .of the social events of that year. They 
occupy a handsome and commodious home 
at 25.5 Third street, and have three bright 
children — Christopher, Philomena and Eva. 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



A large and well selected library adds to 
the charm which the doctor finds in his at- 
tractive residence and the members of his 
household. 

WILLIAM HODNETT BUTLER, M. D., 
was born in Fall River, and received his edu- 
cation in the public schools. In 1894 he en- 
tered Bellevue Hospital Medical College, 
from which he was graduated in 1897 with 
the degree of doctor of medicine. Dr. But- 
ler returned to Pall River and besan pran- 



LBANDER RICH DARLING.— Riding a 
hobby to one's profit is illustrated in the 
story of the career of Leander Rich Darling. 
Early in his life he recognized that "there 
is a tide in the affairs of men which, taken 
at the flood, leads on to fortune." By making 
judicious use of his spare moments he ob- 
tained that knowledge which has become 
the foundation for his success as a business 
man and an authority on chemistry. Mr. 
Darling is one of the large class of the 
pity's successful citizens — a Fall River boy. 




Willi; 



Hodncit Butler M. D. 



tice at 2:!4 Bedford street, where he now re- 
sides. He was married in 1898 to Miss 
Emma T. Victoreen, a teacher in the public 
schools. He has two children^Alice and 
William. The doctor is a member of the 
American .Medical Association, the Massa- 
chusetts Medical Society, the Fall River 
Medical Society, the Fall River Medical 
Improvoment Society, and the Clover Club; 
is visiting physician to the Fall River City 
Hospital, consulting physician to Ste. Anne's 
Hospital and medical examiner of Court 
Roliln Hood, A. O. F. 



He came to gladden the parental home April 
15, 18G9. His general education was ob- 
tained in the city schools, being finished 
with the course in the high school. In those 
days he became interested in chemistry, and 
he continued to interest himself in the 
science during the fourteen years he was 
employed in the Massasoit National Bank. 
Home reading was supplemented by instruc- 
tion by mail from some of the best chemists 
in the ITnited States. Mr. Darling saw an 
oi)portunily to enter a field in this city 
that was almost unoccu|)icil. and he deter- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



235 



mined to qualify thoroughly for entrance 
therein some time. The chance came on the 
formation of the E. S. Anthony Drug Com- 
pany. A manager and a chemi.st was needed 
in carrying out a plan to manufacture and 
deal in medicinal and chemical compounds, 
and L. R. Darling was considered to be 
fitted in an unusual degree for the respon- 
sibility. Although he had made himself 
valuable in the bank, and liked the voca- 
tion. Mr. Darling availed himself of the offer 
to which a financial interest in tlie company 
was coupled. His ability and onihiisiasm 



Mr. Darling, which permeated every depart- 
ment. Masonry and Pythianisni have dis- 
tinguished his choice of fraternities. He Is 
a charter member of Puritan U)dgc. K. P.. 
and belongs to King Philip Lodge, Fall 
River Council. Fall River Chapter and God- 
frey de Bouillon Commander-y. as well as 
the Drug Club of New York City. The 
Darling family comprises two members. 
Mrs. Darling was Miss Myra E. Peckham. of 
New Bedford. The marriage was solemn- 
ized in that city July 17. 1S9:!. Their home 
life is of the happiest. 




Lc.indcr Rich Darling 



tended so much to the development of the 
new enterprise that its success was placed 
beyond the shadow of a doubt practically 
from the inception. The need of larger 
quarters led to the leasing of room in the 
new building of the Weavers' Association, 
and additions to the force of employees to 
meet the demands of the steadily increasing 
trade as developed under the energetic and 
intelligent management. It is no exaggera- 
tion to say that the company's career up- 
ward has been little short of phenomenal, 
through the exercise of the personality of 



EDMUND WHITEHEAD.— Among the pro- 
gressive business men of Fall River the sub- 
ject of this sketch deserves mention. He 
was bom in Clayton, near Manchester, Eng- 
land, July 4, 1S45, and came to the United 
States in the clipper "A. W. Townsend." 
Five weeks were spent aboard the ship, 
which arrived at Lewis' wharf. Boston, in 
September, 1850. Fall River was the ob- 
jective ijoint of the Whiteheads, who estab- 
lished their home in what was then Tiver- 
ton. Mr. Whitehead first went to a town 
school, and afterwards was enrolled In the 



236 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



schools of Fall River. In 1855 the family 
removed to Taunton, where Mr. Whitehead 
helped to support himself by selling fruit 
out of a basket at the Wales street railroa' 
station. In 185G the Whiteheads came back 
to Fall River, and at the age of twelve young 
Whitehead found employment in the Ameri- 
can Print Works, where he remained five 
years. After leaving the works he entered 
a meat market and for a short time drove a 
butcher cart through the towns in the vicin- 
ity of the city. For eight years he worked 
hard and masitered every detail of the busi- 
ness. He made so many friends and ac- 
quaintances that he concluded there was 
plenty of room for another market. Accord- 
in'.;lv. .\lr. Whitcluad oppned a store at lil2 




Edn 



tii Whitclicad 



South Main street, in .July. 1809. The loca- 
tion quickly became known as '"Whitehead's 
corner," and the business was a success 
from the start. Mr. Whitehead owes it all 
to his personality and strict attention to 
business and a desire to please the public. 
In .lune, 1S9G, Mr. Whitehead moved to his 
present handsome market. Its splendid 
windows are a delight to the passer by at 
Nos. IS and 20 South Main street. The 
Whitehead market is one of the attractions 
of the city, and hundreds admire the dis- 
play of good things which are to be found 
nowhere else in the city. Mr. Whitehead 
responded to the call to patriotic duly which 
was Issued In ISfit, and was mustered into 



the army at Camp Meig. Readvillt, .May 9. 
the same year. The Rebellion showed so 
many signs of coming lo an end that there 
was no need of sending tne recruits who 
were designated as "hundred day men," to 
the front, and on Aug.ist 4, ISCA, they were 
honorably discharged. Mr. Whitehead is a 
charter member of Narraganselt I>odge of 
.Masons, Fall River Royal Arch Chapter, 
Fall River Council of Royal and Select Mas- 
ters, the Retail .Merchants' Association, and 
Godfrey de Bouillon Commandery, Knights 
Templar. He was united in marriage to 
Sylvia L. Borden, .March 2G, 18C8. The 
union has be?n bkssed with six children — 
.Andrew E.. a youns man of great promise, 
who died August 7, lOdM; Edith S., S. Louis, 
.lennie L., Edgar B. and Elsie M. The family 
home was in this" c:ty until 1880, when the 
abode was changed to South Swansea, where 
.Mr. Whitehead is charmingly situated and 
is active in the social affairs of the town. 
His son, Edgar B., is actively engaged in the 
business, and is a man of sterling character 
and with the qualifications that ensure 
success. 

.loll.N I). Ml'NROi'^ was born in Prince 
lOdward l.sland, February G, 185-1, and came 
lo Fall River .luly 1. 1SG7. He was first em- 
ployed in a cotton mill. A short lime later 
he sought employment with .\lniy. .Milne & 
Co., printers and publishers of the Fall 
River "Daily News," as errand boy and paper 
carrier, taking advantage of any spare time 
that was his, he learned to set type and 
was later employed in the oflice as an ap- 
prentice to the printers' trade. In January, 
1S72, at the age of eighteen years, he en- 
tered into a partnership in the job printing 
business, and in September, 1885, he bought 
the sole control of the business, which has 
since grown and prospered under his man- 
agement. When the Fall River Daily Herald 
Publishing Company was reorganized in 
1895. Mr. Muuroe became president of the 
new corporation, serving in that capacity 
until 19tt4, when he resigned. A year later 
ho was elected treasurer and manager of the 
coriKiration, which position he now holds. 
He Is a trustee of Ihe Union Savings Bank 
and is identified in many ways with the 
business interests of the city. Mr. .Munroe 
has long been interested in the Massachu- 
setts volunteer militia, and has given many 
years of his life to the service. When Ihe 
First Regiment wa^ organized in 1879. he 
onllslcd as one of t!io original menibc rs in 



238 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Company M, now Twelfth Company, Corps 
Coast Artillery, afterwards serving in the 
grades of corporal, sergeant, second lieuten- 
ant and first lieutenant until 1892, when he 
was invited to take command of a company 
of the Naval Brigade, which was being or- 
ganized at that time. He accepted the com- 
mission of commanding officer of F Company 
and served for two years, when he resigned 
his commission and was retired at his own 
request, his earnest efforts in behalf of the 
brigade having been recognized by the award 
of the advanced rank of lieutenant com- 
mander in retirement. When the call was 
issued for volunteers to take the place of 
the State Militia which had enlisted for the 
war with Spain, in T^OS. Mr. Munrop was 



business parts of the city, is the remarkable 
record to the credit of Rudolf F. Haffen- 
refter, Jr., treasurer and general manager 
of the Old Colony Brewing Company. H,e 
is a native of Boston, and thirt.v-two years 
of age. His preliminary studies were such 
as were taught in the Chauncey Hall School, 
in Boston. Next he became a student in the 
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, tak- 
ing the full course. The technical instruc- 
tion there acquired was supplemented by en- 
rollment in a leading institution in Stutt- 
gart, Germany. On his return to the United 
States, Mr. Haffenreffer came to this city 
and arranged to establish a brewery. Busi- 
ness men were led readily to co-operate, and 
the Old Colony Brewing Company came into 



IgjflPlyP^ a jakf^ ^S^^^ 


i 


w^ 



pronipl in ormuiizing llic KJlli (Thirteenth) 
Company of the Provisional Militia, ready 
for seivice al the front in case of need, and 
was commissioned captain of the company, 
retaining the commission until the company 
was disbanded at the close of the war. Mr. 
Munroe is a member of the Masonic order, 
having attained the high office of Grand 
(';i|)tain fieneral of the Grand Conimandery 
of Knighls Templar of Massarhusctts and 
Rhode Island. 

RUDOLF F. hafI'f;nri:ffi3r, jr.— 

lOlevon years ago a stranger to most of the 
people of Fall River, now one of the best 
known and most important [actors in the 



exivstence. with tjiiiiilan l-ojuy. as |)resident; 
Lawrence S. Holden, vice-president: Cornel- 
ius Sullivan, secretary, and Mr. Haffenreffer, 
treasurer and general manager. It was or- 
ganized under the laws of West Virginia, 
February S. 1.S96, with a capital of $2.i(>,non, 
anil occupies a building 104 feet long and 
■1.') feet wide and six stories in height. The 
t)rewery was opened December !> of the same 
year. It was fitted with the latest machines 
for brewing ale. lager, porter and malt ex- 
tract, and an ice plant was installed which 
has a capacity of fifty tons daily. It was 
the second venture of the kind undertaken 
in Fall River, but it was under auspices ami 
with a nuinngenient much different from ^ hat 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



259 



governing the undertaking, which resulted 
in failure for its promoters. At first, pro- 
duction was small, in keeping with the con- 
servative ideas of the manager. It was not 
long, however, before the quality of Old 
Colony brews became generally known, and 
consumption of them increased heavily. 
How business has developed appears from 
the fact that the output of the brewery is 
100.000 barrels yearly, and that the service 
of fifty men and forty horses is required to 
distribute the product. The highest wages 
are paid and the best materials used, while 
the expert knowledge and skill of the man- 
ager are always employed. So great a suc- 
ceiis has the company become that no stock 
is obtainable, for it has paid a large dividend 
yearly almost from the beginning. Besides 
giving close attention to the company, Mr. 
Haffenreffer is a director of the Metacomet 
Xationa, Bank, a trustee of the Burkhardt 
Brewing Company of Boston, and treasurer 
of the International Electric Company of 
this city. His club membership extends to 
the Quequechan and Fall River Golf clubs, 
Fall River Yacht Club and the Taunton 
Yacht Club. On January 29. 1902, Miss 
Maude Monroe became his wife. They have 
one child an,1 a delightful home. In sum- 
mer the family is quartered in a fine cottage 
on one of the islands around Portsmouth. 

RICH.\RD H.A.RTLEY COOK.— The well 
known Park Commissioner is a native of 
England. He was born in Bolton, March 18, 
ISoO, and received his early education in 
the place of his birth. At an early age he 
learned to spin cotton in the famous mill 
of Houldsworth & Co.. Reddish, near Stock- 
port, England. In 1S83 he came to America 
and went to Newark, N. J., and started the 
first mill and thread manufactory in this 
country for the Clark Mile End Thread Man- 
utacturing Company and became assistant 
superintendent, remaining four years. In 
18ST he came to Fall River as superintendent 
of the Kerr Thread Company and began the 
manufacture of thread as it had never been 
done before in this country. When the 
American Thread Company was formed in 
1S9S. Mr. Cook was made general superin- 
tendent of the company's mills in America. 
Mr. Cook was appointed by Mayor Grime 
Commissioner of Parks and Cemeteries, and 
has served on the commission since organ- 
ization. How well and faithfully he has per- 
formed the duties of his office the records 
of the department testify. Socially, Mr. 



Cook is prominent and belongs to the Que- 
quechan Club, the most exclusive in Fall 
River. He organized the Fall River Bowling 
Green Club and became its first president. 
He is also a member of the Fall River Yacht 
and Golf clubs. On February 20, 1.S75, he 
was united in marriage to Miss- Betsy Uean, 
of Reddish, near Stockport, England. Two 
daughters have blessed their union, Mary 
and Ellen Cook. The family reside in a 
beautiful residence at 22C7 Pleasant street, 
Fall River. Mr. Cook has been in the cot- 
ton n anufacturing business all his life, and 
r.:any of the new inventions which have im- 




Rich.ird Hartley Cook 

proved and developed the cotton manufactur- 
ing trade are the creatures of his active and 
creative brain. 

.lAMES DANIEL CROSSON.— Uninter- 
rupted occupancy of the office of City Mes- 
senger for twenty years is the record as a 
public servant of James D. Crosson. Changes 
in the personnel of the city government are 
constant, but that circumstance has not af- 
fected the status of Mr. Crosson. who has 
managed to emerge a victor from every con- 
test tor the chair which he has filled to the 
general satisfaction. His strength lies in 
minding his own business and attending 
faithfully to the duties devolving on him as 
n;e=senger. Mr. Crosson is a Fall River boy. 
His first birthday was June 2.i, 18.53. He 
engaged in the livery stable business after 



240 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



leaving school and was a success at it. Al- 
though entirely without experience in polit- 
ical ways, he sought the post of messenger 
in ISSC, and was chosen by the city govern- 
ment over a strong rival. Every year since 
he has been re-elected, acting also as super- 
intendent of the city hall by appointment of 
the Mayor. Power boating and long walking 
are the only diversions of the messenger. 
His home is in Bay street, within a stone's 
throw of the river, on which he spends his 
leisure in summer in a handsome launch. 
His wife was Miss Margaret T. McDermott, 
to whom he was married September 27. 1S77. 
Ceorge F. A., Gertrude M. M., Mary H. W.. 
Jan:cs D. V. and Jassph H. Crosson are their 



to talvc the editorial chair in the oflSce of 
the "New Bedford .Journal." He was a mem- 
ber of the stTff •■ •': ■riill River Globe" 




Ja 



Da 



.1 Cr. 



children. Mr. Crosson belongs to no organi- 
zalion Ijut the Fall River Yacht Club. The 
family worships in St. Patrick's Church. 

MICHAEL REAGAN is Mayor Coughlin's 
private secretary. He was l)orn in Somerset, 
•lime 11, ISUl, his parents being .lereniiah 
and Julia Reagan. He graduated from the 
high school in 1S79, and became a compos- 
itor, a trade he had learned during his spare 
hours. A couple of .vears later ho was en- 
gaged as a reporter on the "Herald." which 
paper he had served as a newsboy from his 
iwpirih year. In 1S,S,S, Mr. Reagan was 
niarle managing editor, and occupiod the post 
eight years, retiring with the sale of the 
paper and a change In the editorial policy, 




Michael Reagan 

u lion selected for the secretaryship. Mr. 
Reagan married Philomena T. Byrne, a 
teacher, in ISST, and has one son, Leon J., 
aged eighteen. 

CAPTAIN WILLIA.M DfRFKE will long 
be remembered here as the pioneer in the 
ice business, with which he was connected 
for sixty-three years, and which he saw grow 
from the small dimensions when he began 
cutting in 1S;!S to a business of 60,000 tons 
when he sold it in 1901. He was born on 
the site of the present Durfee block Febru- 
ary 27, 1811, the son of William Durfee, a 
sea captain, and Hannah Westgate, and 
the descendant of a family of able men. 
His father died when he was ten months 
old. and early in life he went to sea on a 
whaler, carrying a Government "protection" 
against impressment which is still preserved 
in the family. He also entered the fishing 
business with vessels which he chartered, 
and employed, among others, members of 
the Church family, of Tiverton, who have 
since become famous in menhaden fishing. 
In 1S:!S, in company with Robert Cook, he 
started the first ice business here, in a small 
stone building, still standing on Pleasant 
street, near the Narrows. Al first it re- 
quired a whole year to sell what could be 
stored here. Imi as the business grew other 




Captain William Durfcc 



242 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



buildings were erected till fifteen lajge 
houses were occupied at New Boston and ten 
at Assonet. The early method of loading 
the ice into wagons at the pond, carting it 
to the houses and there unloading it, had 
been replaced by five endless chains, and 
the plant was probably the best equipped in 
New England for the rapid handling of ice. 
A large wholesale and retail business was 
carried on here and at Newport. Mr. Cook 
was associated with him for more than forty 
years, and on his retirement Mr. Durfee car- 
ried it on alone. When together, they had 



passed to the Arctic Ice and Cold Storage 
Company. He died in his ninetieth year in 
1901. Mr. Durfee was of kindly disposition 
and a rugged, uncompromising honesty that 
led him to meet every obligation in exact 
accordance with his agreement, whatever 
others might be disposed to do. His wife 
was Ann C. Durfee, by whom he had one son, 
William Durfee. a progressive business man, 
who has shown his ability in the handling 
of his father's business and in the improve- 
ment of the real estate, as well as making 
possible the erection, in 1905, of a new 




John Francis Qtiinn (Dc 



bought the Richardson House, on North 
Main street, and the Thurston House, on 
Central street, both of which fell to Mr. 
Durfee in the division of interests, and with 
his other holdings made him one of the 
largest owners of real estate here. The 
Durfee block, in which he made his home, 
had been erected by him in 187C, on a site 
bought from Mary Borden by his father in 
1802 for ?200, then considered an enormous 
price. He retained the ice business till De- 
cember 10, liMll. when ho sold II to Arthur 
Freeston, of Philadelphia, from whom it 



theatre, the Savoy, which is the leading 
amusement house in the city. 

.lOHX FRANCIS QCINN.— One man who 
contributed as much as an.vbody in New 
England to the development of the indus- 
trial branch of life insurance was John F. 
Quinn, of this city. He was one of the first 
superintendents of this district, the most 
important in southeast Massachusetts. Mr. 
Quinn was born in Enfield, Meath County, 
Ireland, .)uno 2-1, 1853. Eight years after- 
wards the family removed to Stockport, 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



243 



England, and the boy secured work in a 
print worlds, getting his schooling at night. 
In 1860 the Quinns came to America and 
settled in Fall River. Mr. Quinn's first em- 
ployment was in the American Print Works. 
Next he became an operative in a cotton 
mill. He was full of ambition, and he ap- 
preciated the value of opiwrtunity. He 
seized it and became successively a loom 
fixer and second overseer in the Fall River 
manufactory, known then as the "White 
Mill." The opening of an agency by the 
John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Com- 
pany led to the offer of the superintendency 
to Mr. Quinn, and he accepted July 21, 1884. 
That was the turning point of his life. In 
addition to popularizing the industrial sys- 
tem until the business attained extraordin- 
ary dimensions, the superintendent estab- 
lished agencies in Taunton and New Bed- 
ford, which he managed in connection with 
his supervision of the branches here and in 
Newport. There was no decrease anywhere 
up to 1904, when every industry was almost 
paralyzed by a strike in the Fall River fac- 
tories which lasted six months, and when 
sickness obliged him to relinquish his un- 
ceasing watchfulness. His incapacity was 
the cause of the work of superintending de- 
volving on others, and the absence of the 
master mind was noticed in the amount and 
character of the business. Mr. Quinn's re- 
cord in the insurance business was excep- 
tional. All claims against the company on 
policies issued by his agents were settled 
promptly and satisfactorily. He pointed 
with pride to the indisputable fact that no 
beneficiary ever appealed to the law to se- 
cure redress, or even threatened legal pro- 
ceedings to induce payment of the amount 
of a policy. Furthermore, he was instru- 
mental in obtaining many concessions for 
the people of Fall River who were insured 
with the company ihe represented when 
strikes, sickness or depressions rendered 
difficult or impossible the collection of prem- 
iums. Many things in use by the company 
are due to the superintendent, whose judg- 
ment was invariably deferred to, for It was 
recognized that he was as keenly alive to 
the interest of his employers as he was in 
conserving the well-being of the insured. It 
was his suggestion that resulted in the issu- 
ance of a policy for $250, which is the fea- 
ture of the industrial system. Until hfs 
business became too engrossing. Mr. Quinn 
was deepl.v interested in fraternities. Pas- 
sive membership did not comport with his 



idea of the administration of the affairs of a 
brotherhood, and on that account he set 
the example of activity in furtherance of the 
work of the Foresters of America, the 
Knig'hts of Sherwood Forest, Knights of the 
Mystic Chain, Knights of Columbus, Ancient 
Order of United Workmen, and Benevolent 
and Protective Order of Elks. He always 
had a special taste for theatricals, and took 
leading parts in plays presented under the 
auspices of the Kemble Dramatic Club, in 
behalf of a religious or benevolent purpose. 
By his marriage January 11, 1877, to Miss 
Ellen Whalon, he had one daughter, Lottie 
E., who is the wife of .Joseph T. Healy. Mrs. 
Quinn died on August 7, 1883. Mr. Quinn 
took Miss Sarah A. Hoar daughter of 
Charles P., a member of the police depart- 
ment for many years and a veteran of the 
Civil War, and Sarah Hoar, for his second 
wife. A son, William H. Quinn, was born 
of that marriage. For nearly a year before 
the death of Mr. Quinn, February 12, 1905, 
he was more or less indisposed. His will 
power was strong, however, and he held out 
against the gradual but certain undermining 
of his health for six months, when he was 
obliged to relinquish the close supervision 
of the insurance responsibility he had fos- 
tered so sedulously. The respect in which 
the citizen was held was made clear by the 
gathering around his bier the morning of the 
obsequies. After services In St. Patrick's 
Church the body was borne to North Burial 
Ground for its eternal rest. 

JAMES LANGFOUD.— In a message of 
sympathy and condolence to Jlrs. James 
Langford for the death of her husband, 
Ma.vor Coughlin said: "I feel that the city 
is deprived of an upright, honest and public- 
spirited citizen, who discharged faithfully 
every public trust, and whose beneficence 
to the weak and lowly was a household word 
in the community." This tribute was paid 
to the memory of a man who was a man 
among men. Friends were bound to him 
by the sillten cords of affection as strongly 
as though 'by bands of steel; and what they 
lost the whole city experienced in a way. 
.Mr. Langford's birthplace was Heywood, 
Lancashire, England. After Ihe finish of his 
school days he entered a cotton mill In his 
native land and learned how to spin. At the 
age of twenty-two he married Emma A. War- 
burton and decided to try his fortune in 
America. Employment was obtained in the 
spinning room of the Mechanics' Mill. When 



244 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



a strike forced Mr. Langford into idleness, 
he went to Bridgeport, Conn., where he 
learned the making of sewing machines. 
Four years later he resumed his residence 
in Fall River and his work as a spinner. He 
believed in unionism and served three years 
as president of the union of his craft and two 
years as its treasurer. His prominence as 
a labor man led to his nomination and elec- 
tion to the great and general court by the 
Democratic party in 1880. The life of a law- 
maker did not appeal to the new member, 
and his first terra was his last. Mr. Lang- 
ford next secured an agency for the sale of 
sewing machines and pianos. Through a 
large acquaintance he obtained a very suc- 
cessful patronage, which was added to by 




. L.\nKford 'Dccc.ir.cd' 



liis methods. Promotion from the position of 
assistant chief of the fire department, which 
ho held for twelve years, from 1885, to the 
command of the force, in 1898, caused him 
to dispose of his business interests. On his 
relinquishment of the oflicial relation to the 
department, Mr. l^angford established the 
Langford House. It became a noted hostelry, 
not especially on account of the urbanity of 
I he proprietor, but more particularly by 
reason of the excellence of the cuisine. That 
received close attention, and the effect upon 
patronage was marked. Mr. bangford was 
an enthusiastic member of the Fall River 
Cricket Club, and derived a great deal of 
satisfaction from its successes on the field, 



though not actively participating in the game 
in several years. His name appeared also 
on the rosters of the U. S. Grant Lodge of 
the Sons of St. George, Unity Lodge of Odd 
Fellows, Puritan Lodge of Knights of Py- 
thias, and the Fall River Firemen's Relief 
Association. At the lime of his death, Jan- 
uary IT, IflflG, the family comprised Mrs. 
Langford; Stephen E. Langford, a son, who 
is a mem'ber of the fire department; Mrs. 
Frederick Booth, of this city; Mrs. James 
A. Smith, of Shreveport, La., and Miss Alice 
G. Langford. a student in the Smith College, 
Northampton. Death resulted from compli- 
cations arising from a boil on the neck, and 
it was entirely unexpected, owing to the fine 
physique of Mr. Langford. The obsequies 
were notable for the size and character of 
the pageant, a'nd the number of floral testi- 
monials. Public recognition of the loss felt 
by the citizens w-as attested furthermore by 
the tolling of the fire bells the hour of the 
funeral, a tribute rarely shown a deceased 
citizen. 

ARTHIR BORDEN BRAYTON.— Arthur 
Borden Brayton, City Clerk of Fall River, 
was born at Fall River on November 4, 1SG4, 
and is the son of Israel and Abby A. (Man- 
chester) Brayton, who were also born in 
Fall River. His paternal and maternal an- 
cestors, for more than two hundred years, 
lived in the territory between Newiwrt, 
lihode Island and Freetown, Massachusetts, 
lioth of his paternal great-grandfathers, Bor- 
den Brayton and Pardon Lake, fought in the 
Revolutionary War. Mr. Brayton was etiu- 
cated in the public schools of Fall River, in- 
cluding the high school, and afterwards in a 
I)rivate academy in Providence, Rhode Is- 
land. ri)on his return to Fall River he se- 
cured a iKJsition in the Massasoit National 
Bank, which he left after a few months of 
work, temiwrarily, in the oflfice of the City 
Auditor, and after the completion of certain 
special work he returned to the said bank, 
which he again left, soon after, for a better 
opening a« an accountant for a contractor 
and builder; but in less than six months he 
was in<luced to return to the office of the 
City Auditor, and take a position on more 
favorable terms than he received at the time 
of his former employment in that office. A 
few months later, on January 5, 1SS5, he was 
appointed as Assistant City Clerk, and as 
Clerk of Committees. Owing to the rapid 
growth in population which increased his 
duties as Assistant City Clerk to a great ex- 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



tent, he resigned the office of Clerk of Com- 
mittees, on December 2. 1S95, but continued 
as Assis.tant City Cleric until he became City 
Clerk. He was elected as City Clerk on June 
27, 189S, and assumed the duties of that office 
on July IS, 1S58. It is an indication of the 
ambition and energy he possesses when it is 
considered that he. as a stranger and without 
any influence, entered the City Hall in the 
lowest clerical position in the building, and 
rose to a position which is as high in im- 
portance as any. and by many considered the 
most important. As is well known, the 



the people; keeps the respective departments 
posted in relation to such orders of the City 
Council that may affect them, and in gen- 
eral devotes much time and thought in help- 
ing to keep the affairs of the city running 
smoothly. It might be well to mention here, 
as a matter of record for the -information 
of interested inquirers in the future, that 
the fire of March 19, 1880, which destroyed 
the interior of the City Hall, did not destroy 
a particie of the records of the City Clerk's 
office, as the records were all in a lire-proof 
vault, and by reque.^t of the City Clerk, the 




duties of a City Clerk are manifold, and he 
is, by law, the custodian of all records and 
papers of the City Council. Among his 
many duties might be mentioned that he 
is the clerk of the City Council and of the 
Doard of Aldermen: is the Registrar of 
births, marriages and deaths; is the cus- 
todian of the city seal; has charge of the 
records of personal property: issues all li- 
censes granted by the Board of Aldermen: 
has charge of the election matters, printing 
ballots, providing polling places, apparatus 
and supplies for the holding of eTections by 



,«n Brayton 

chief engineer of the fire department caused 
several streams of water to be played con- 
tinuously on the vault to keep the same 
sufficiently cool to prevent any damage to 
its contents. On October 10. ISS.s. he was 
married to Annie Evelyn Wilbur, of Fall 
River, daughter of Philip H. and Sarah E. 
(Winslow) Wilbur. Mrs. Brayton is a direct 
descendant of Kenelm Winslow. who was 
a brother of Edward Winslow. of the "May- 
flower." Their children are Hazel A., born 
August 23, 1890; Stanley B.. born March IT. 
1,«!93. died December 1. ISOfi; Ahbie E.. horn 



246 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



September IG, 1S95, died December i, isyti; 
Whitney W., born April U, 1S9S, and Rod- 
ney v., born September 14, 1901. Mr. Bray- 
ton and his family are attendants of the 
First Congregational Church. He is a di- 
rector of the Lafayette Co-Operative Banlv; 
is a director in eight Rhode Island corpora- 
tions, being president of one and secretary 
of the other seven, and is the vice-pre.sident 
and a director of The Pianola Company, a 
New York corporation manufacturing self- 
playing pianos. Besides belonging to vari- 
ous associations and clubs, he is a member 
of the Royal Arcanum, Knights of P.vlhias, 
King Philip Lodge of Free Masons of Fall 
River, Fall River Royal .\rch Chapter, Fall 
River Covmcil Royal and Select Masters, 
Godfrey de Bouillon Commandery Knights 
Templar, and Aleppo Temple A. A. O. Nobles 
of the Mystic Shrine. 

.lOSBPH A. BARRE, M. D.— Among the 
physicians and surgeons of Fall River the 
name at the head of this sketch is proni- 




joacph A. Bairc. M. D. 

Inenl among the French residents. He was 
born April 2, 1S6S, at Sherrington, province 
of Quebec, Canada, and came to the United 
States in 1880 with his parents, settling in 
what is known as the French colony, in the 
eastern section of this city, popularly called 
the "Flint Village." After arriving here 
with his parents he went to the French 
parochial and public schools, after which ho 



entered the drug store of Dr. J. U. Chagnon, 
and remained there about one year, when 
..e went to work for his brother, who kept 
a drug store, and was famous in that line. 
The young man soon mastered every detail 
of the profession and after another year's 
work was registered by the State Board of 
Pharmacy as a druggist. He was not con- 
tent in the drug business, however, and de- 
cided to study hard and become a physician, 
entering the College of Physicians and Sur- 
geons at Baltimore, Maryland, where he 
was graduated with the degree of M. D. in 
1892. After graduation he returned to Fall 
River and began the practice of his pro- 
fession. He has been very successful and 
is highly esteemed and respected by all who 
have the pleasure of his acquaintance. In 
September, 1895, he was married to Miss 
Herminie Langevin, of New Hampshire, a 
very attractive and handsome young woman. 
The union has been blessed with four chil- 
dren, namely: H. Alban, Oscar. Germaine 
and Ferdinand, who died in 1902. Dr. Barre 
is very charitable and kind to the poor, and 
gives a great deal of money and valuable 
time to increase their happiness. He has 
given his services free of charge to St. Jo- 
seph's Orphan Home ever since he began 
|)raotice, and no worthy case is ever turned 
Irom his door without aid. He is a member 
nf the Massachusetts Medical Society, the 
Medical Union of Fall River, the American 
Medical Society and the Fall River Bowling 
Creen Club. The doctor is on the staff of 
tlie Union Hospital and Ste. Anne's Hospital, 
lie is a Republican in politics, but in local 
matters votes for who he thinks is the best 
man for the place. He resides at 1555 Pleas- 
uii street, where he also has his office. 

MICHAEL McNALLY.— It is not possible 
In divorce the name of Matthew C. D. Bor- 
'len from the story of the creation and op- 
iraiion of the immense plant of the Fall 
River Iron Works Company, which is a last- 
ing monument to his confidence in the city 
of his birth and the breadth of his enter- 
l)riso. As a helper in the great undertaking 
Mr. Borden found in Michael McNally a 
capable and reliable man, whose assistance 
in the work of construction and installation 
was invaluable. Mr. McNally was born a 
mechanic as well as an Englishman. Gloss- 
up is his najlive place, and September 14, 
18G0, is his birthday. After some years of 
residence in Providence the family settled 
in this city in 1872. Here the youth learned 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



247 



the trades of bricklaying and stone-masonry. 
He was skilled at both and full of ambition, 
and in 1S9S set up for himself as a contrac- 
tor. It was then that the attention of Mr. 
Borden was drawn to Mr. McNally, and con- 
fidential relations developed that resulted 
in the subject of this sketch taking entire 
charge of the building operations ordered by 
the manufacturer. Although vast sums of 
money were placed at his disposal and a 




of his four children — Anna G., Agnes, Alice 
and Elizabeth (deceased) — was Alice O'Mara 
at the time of her marriage in ISSit. Mr. Mc- 
Nally attends St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 
and belongs to the Fall River Ix)dge of the 
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. 

JOHN E. TORPHY was born in the city 
of Lawrence, Mass., November 16, 1872. He 
came to Fall River with his parents and was 
educated in the public schools, after which 
time he began life like many another young 
man, in the cotton mills, where he worked 
for three years. Being ambitious and desir- 
ing to better his condition he secured a 
position as clerk in the well known grocery 
house of James Keenan, where he soon ac 
quired a knowledge of the grocery business. 
For fourteen years he remained with Mr. 
Keenan in a confidential capacity, and in 
1899 went into the grocery business for him 
self at 72 North Court street, where he now 
is. Mr. Torphy is a Democrat in politics 
and believes in the principles of Democracy 



Micliacl McNaUv 

weighty responsibility was devolved on him, 
there was a rigid accounting for every dol- 
lar, and the ideas of ihe employer were ear- 
ned out to the letter and to his satisfac- 
tion. One of the first appointments made by 
Mayor John T. Coughlin when his term be 
gan in 1905, was that of Michael McNally 
for member of the Board of Fire Commis- 
sioners. It was the only office of a public 
character that the appointee ever had filled. 
He attended to the duties with the zeal and 
intelligence that have distinguished him in 
his business, and became chairman of the 
commission the second year. Efficiency and 
discipline without severity, but by obtaining 
the confidence of the men, his way in deal- 
ing with workmen, were what he sought, 
and the standing of the fire department is 
proof of the good results of the policy when 
applied to servants of the people. The Com- 
missioner seeks improvement, and nothing 
satisfies him but the best. He has a fine 
home at 629 Highland avenue. The mother 




John E. Torptiy 

as laid down by Thomas Jefferson. On May 
1, 1905, Mayor John T. Coughlin appointed 
him Commissioner of Parks and Cemeteries, 
a position which was coveted by many party 
men. Commissioner Torphy was united in 
marriage November 6, 1895, to Miss Mary 
G. Collins, of Newburyport, Mass. Six chil- 
dren have blessed their union. Their names 
are: John E., Jr., William, Marian. Fred- 
erick, James and Heloise. The last two 



248 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



mentioned are deceased. The family resides 
in a comfortable home at 74G June street. 
The Commissioner is a member of the A. O. 
H. Society and belongs to St. Joseph's Holy 
Name. The family attend St. Joseph's Cath- 
olic Church. John E. Torphy is an example 
of what perseverance, hard work and hon- 
esty of purpose will accomplish. He is cour- 
teous and loind to those who come in contact 
with him, and is always ready to help any 
movement for the advancement of the city 
of Fall River. 

THOMAS EDMUND MALONEY, V. S.— 
The first regularly graduated veterinary sur- 
geon to locate here and begin the practice 
of veterinary medicine and surgeon was Dr. 




Tho 



Edmund M.iloncy. V. S. 



Thomas E. .Maloney. He was born in (!i or- 
giavUle, R. L, July 20, 1SG5. His parents 
were Michael, for many years trial justice 
of the justice court for the town of Smilh- 
field, R. I., and Mary Maloney, both of whom 
were natives of Ireland. After receiving his 
degree from the New York College of Veter- 
inary Surgeons on March 13, 18S9, he came 
to this city and began (he practice of his 
profession, opening his ofllce March 17, 18S9. 
In 1892 the office of Inspector of Animals 
and Provisions was created by act of the 
Legislature. The first appointment under 
the law In Fall River was that of Dr. Ma- 
loney. whose nomination was sent to the 
Aldermen in April by Mayor John W. Cough- 



lin. The term was three years. The board 
of registration in veterinary medicine, com- 
posed of five members, was established by 
the Legislature in 1903 for the regulation 
of the practice of veterinary medicine and 
surgery. Dr. Maloney was appointed for one 
year by Governor John L. Bates. The fol- 
lowing year the Governor reappointed him 
for five years. In 1905, Mayor John T. 
Coughlin named the doctor for his old office 
of Inspector of Animals, and in 190G renom- 
inated him. In the spring of 1903 the first 
veterinary hospital to be instituted here was 
opened as a private venture by Dr. Maloney. 
in the rear of his residence, 592 North Main 
street, and was a success. In June. 1890, the 
doctor -was married to Margaret Maria Con- 
nelly, a native of Woburn, in the church 
'I St. Francis Xavier. New York City. Four 
( liildren have ibeen born to them — Leo, de- 
I lased; Geraldine, Leona and Margaret 
Mary. He is a member of the Roman Cath- 
'ilic parjsh of the Sacred Heart and of the 
inllowing societies: American-Irish Histori- 
c.il Society, Fall River Trade and Industry 
Association, Fall River Driving Club, Fall 
River Yacht Club. Massachusetts Veterinary 
Association, New York-American Veterinary 
Alumni Association and tho University Club 
of Fall River. 

EVERETT BROWNELL DI'RFEE.— The 
rare honor of becoming superintendent of 
the public schools of his native city belongs 
to Everett Brownell Durfee, son of Oscar F. 
and Abby S. Durfee. He was born June 
22. 1SG2, and with the exception of the time 
spent at college, and a year teaching else- 
where, he has always been a resident of Fall 
River. Mr. Durfee went through all the 
grades of the city schools, finishing at the 
high school as a member of the class of 
ISSO. In the fall of the same year he en- 
tered Brown University, Providence, and 
graduated with the degree of bachelor of 
arts in 1S84. Tho additional honor of mas- 
ter of arts was acquired from tho university 
in 1887. Teaching was adopted by him as a 
profession. There was a vacancy in the 
principalship of the Falls grammar school 
at Attleboro Falls, and. notwithstanding that 
the young graduate was without experience, 
the town commit lee readily selected him for 
the place. Aptitude was apparent in the 
manner and methods of the new principal, 
and results convinced the members of the 
committee that a wise choice had been made 
by them in tilling the position. After the 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



249 



year's duties were completed, Mr. Durfee 
felt that his home city offered a better field 
for educational work and professional ad- 
vancement than the pretty town in which he 
started his career, and when he was ap- 
pointed by the committee to take charge 
of the Tucker street school he put himself 
at the service of that body. Because of file 
large number of pupils enrolled for the high 
school in 1S7G, the building in June street 
was deemed insufficient. A room was opened 
in the Davenport school, where the subject 
of this sketch attended during his first year 
at the high school. Subsequently three 
rooms were opened to accommodate the 
whole class that entered the high school, and 
after one year's service in the Tucker street 
building Mr. Durfee was put in charge of one 
of the rooms. When the B. M. C. Durfee 
High School Building was opened in 18S7, 
he was transferred to this building. Seven- 
teen years in the day schools, and as prin- 
cipal of the advanced evening school fifteen 
years, of patient and zealous effort and un- 
flinching interest on the part of the teacher, 
and profitable instruction to hundreds of 
boys and girls to whom he was a friend and 
guide, followed the utilization of the magni- 
ficent gift of Mrs. Mary Brayton Young to 
the city. The instructor never lost sight of 
his boyhood and youth, and made himself a 
helper indeed to the student in need in any 
of the branches which presented difficulties. 
The relationship was more like that of a 
devoted and earnest parent and a docile and 
anxious son or daughter than of teacher and 
pupil. After Mr. George F. Pope was pro- 
moted to principal of the high school, Mr. 
Durfee was made his successor as vico-prin- 
ci'pal. He held that responsibility but a 
year — 1904 to 1905 — when there was a va- 
cancy in the office of superintendent. Mr. 
William C. Bates resigned to become head 
of the department in Cambridge. Although 
many candidates were considered by the 
committee, public opinion was overwhelming 
in declaring that a citizen should bo pre- 
ferred, in view of the admitted attainments 
of the residents who were candidates. The 
effect of the close identification of Mr. Dur- 
fee with the interests of the pupils he in- 
structed at the high school manifested itself 
in a remarkable demonstration in favor of 
his election. Deference was shown the sen- 
timent, and Everett B. Durfee was elected 
superintendent in 190S. That trust he is dis- 
charging with credit to himself and to the 
satisfaction of the community. Through his 



marriage with Miss Carrie Joella Bean, No- 
vember 21, 1887, three children have been 
born. They are Everett Willard, Wentworth 
aiid Abby Prances Durfee. The superintend- 
ent is a Republican, but he eschews politics 
more than the exercise of the franchise as 
a voter. He has been treasurer of the Fall 
River Teachers' Association since its organ- 
ization in 1891, and trustee of tJie Teachers' 
Annuity Guild since 189G. His other offices 
are president of the B. M. C. Durfee High 
School Athletic Association, Superintendent 
of the Third Baptist Sunday School and Di- 
rector of the Bradford Durfee Textile School. 
He belongs to the Massachusetts School- 
masters' Club, the Massachusetts Superin- 
tendents' Association, the New England As- 
sociation of Superintendents, Bristol County 
Teachers' Association and the Sons of Brown 
University of Fall River. His love of athlet- 
ics began when a schoolboy, was continued 
when at college, and characterized his whole 
career as a teacher, his doctrine being that 
a healthy boy or girl makes the better 
scholar, and therefore the better man or 
woman. Mr. Durfee is a graceful and easy 
speaker, and is much in demand on public 
occasions. 

.TAMES SINCLAIR.— The second citizen 
to be honored by his colleagues by election 
to the presidency of the Board of Aldermen, 
as fashioned by the charter adopted by pop- 
ular vote in the election of 1902, was James 
Sinclair. The action of the board may be 
termed a logical choice, for the gentleman 
thus singled out for distinction had occupied 
the vice-presidency in the government of 
1903 and exhibited qualifications for the 
leadership which appealed to the wisdom 
of the citizens occupying seats in the reor- 
ganized board, and influenced their decision 
as they looked among themselves for a 
worthy occupant of the presidential chair. 
Mr. Sinclair is a native neither of Fall River 
nor of the ITnited States, still he possesses 
those trails which have marked the success- 
ful careers of many thousands of adopted 
sons who have figured in the business, pro- 
fessional and public life of our country. 
Glasgow, Scotland, is the birthplace of .Mr. 
Sinclair, and the date of his birth is .Janu- 
ary 31, 1870. His schooling was obtained in 
the rugged land of the thistle, and at the age 
of fourteen he came to Fall River. In time 
he became a bookkeeper, and his first em- 
ployment of importance and responsibility 
began when he entered the office of the 




Hull. James Sin»:Uir. Pr.:sidciit Bo..rd ol Aldermen 1905—6 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



251 



Wampanoag Mill. There he has continued, 
making himself valuable to his superior by 
care and interest. Mr. Sinclair believed in 
making his citizenship practical, and secured 
membership in the Common Council in 1901. 
He was re-elected, and his satisfied constitu- 
ents rewarded him for his service by choos- 
ing him a member of the first Board of Al- 
dermen following the discarding of the or- 
ganic document which had served the munic- 
ipality as a charter since its incorporation as 
a city in 1S54. The Alderman had occupied 
a seat in the single branch continuously to 
the present (190G). In politics he is a Re- 
publican of the broad-minded sort. Mr. Sin- 
clair chose for his life partner Miss May L. 
Lindsey, the marriage taking place October 

C, 1897. The father of the bride was William 

D. Lindsey, who was a leading manufacturer 
of this city. 

JOSEPH NAPOLEON LANDRY, M. D.— 
Among the sons of the dominion of Canada 
who have become residents of this city, and 




Joseph Napokon Landry, M. D. 

identified themselves with its best interests. 
Dr. Joseph N. Landry must be numbered. 
Although less than three years in practice 
here, his professional standing is in the front 
rank. Carleton, Bonavcnture County, Prov- 
ince of Quebec, is Dr. Landry's birthplace. 
He was born August 1, 1872. His prelimi- 
nary education was secured in the seminary 
of Quebec, which has been the educational 
nursery for some of the great men who have 



figured, or are still figuring, in the public, 
professional and clerical life of Canada. 
Training in the rudiments was substantial 
in character, and the mental, moral and 
physical development that succeeded rested 
on a solid foundation. Dr. Landry enrolled 
later as a student in the seminary of Ri- 
mouski, and remained until he had com- 
pleted the course. In pursuance of his de- 
sire to be a doctor, he placed himself under 
the distinguished professors of the Laval 
Institution, in Montreal, the diplomas of 
which are' earned only hy assiduous effort. 
In 1901 ihe degree of doctor of medicine 
was bestowed on the student, and the same 
year a license to practice in the province of 
Quebec was issued. Two years afterwards 
Dr. Landry passed the severe examination 
which is conducted by the board of exam- 
iners in Massachusetts, and he opened an 
office in Fall River, at 73 Avon street, where 
he has his home, as a physician and sur- 
geon. Skill and interest in patients won 
for the young practitioner a large and lucra- 
tive patronage. He added to his reputation 
by opening a private hospital for general 
diseases and surgery, which has been an 
unqualified success. Dr. Landry is one of 
the leading members of the Fall River Med- 
ical Union, and serves the Independent Order 
of Foresters as examiner. He belongs to the 
society of St. John Baptist and Manitou 
Tribe of Red Men. His marriage with 
Maria Cartier took place April 10, 1895. 
There are three children — George Henry, 
Joseph Hector Gaston and Mary .lane — in 
whose education and entertainment he finds 
his principal diversion. 

J. ARTHUR ARCHAMBAULT, M. D.— 
.Among the younger members of the medical 
profession the name of Dr. Archambault is 
coming rapidly to the front as a skilful prac- 
titioner. He was born on October 11, 1875, 
in St. Paul L'Emerte, County of L'Assump- 
tion. Province of Quebec, Canada, and re- 
ceived his early education and training from 
private tutors and at preparatory schools. 
In 1888 he entered the College of L'Assump- 
tion and was graduated therefrom in 1894. 
During the year 189C he began the study of 
science, and in 1897 tok up the study of 
medicine at the Laval University of Mon- 
treal, and was graduated with high honors, 
receiving the degree of M. D. on June 10, 
1901. After graduating, the young doctor 
came to Fall River and began the practice 
of his profession, in the moantiino studying 



2S2 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



harJ and acquiring all the knowleilge pos- 
sible in hospitals and in private workl 
Among the French residents of this city 
Dr. Archamhault has built up a splendid 
practice and stands high in the estimation 
of his brother practitioners. His office and 
residence is located at 704 South Main 
street. The doctor was married on July 30, 
1901, to Miss Marie Claire Belangcr, of Mon- 
treal. Cannda Thfv liavi' nnc snn, a bright 




J. Arlliur Archambault, M. D. 

little fellow, who is named Maurille. Dr. 
Archambault is medical examiner for the 
Ladies' Catholic Benevolent Association of 
I' all River, Branch No. 599. He is also phy- 
sician to Court Cartemanche, Independent 
Order of Foresters of Fall River, No. CIS, 
and physician to Sto. Anne's Hospital. Or. 
Archambault is a close student, hard worker 
and cautious operator. He is an expert 
diagnostician and possesses a most retentive 
memory and a great faculty of comprehen- 
sive observation. The doctor devotes con- 
siderable time to surgery and the diseases 
of iwomen and children. He experiences the 
greatest satisfaction in maintaining what he 
considers principles of right in spite of dif- 
ficulties. He has a host of friends among 
the French and American residents and be- 
lieves in the future of Fall River. 

NKUSON BORDEN DURFEE.— "God, 
home and native land," has been the life 
motto of Nelson Borden Durfop. His lia.s 



not been lip service, but an earnest endeavor 
toward lo.valty and devotion to the three 
great causes in the order named. It is the 
testimony of those who know him that his 
conduct bears out his pretensions; that noth- 
ing savoring of bhe Pharisaical may be ad- 
duced in detraction. Mr. Durfee was born 
in Tiverton January 28, 1870, his parents 
being Joshua T. and Amanda M. (Crandall) 
Durfee. He was educated in the toT.n 
schools and in Fall River, and made so good 
use of his time that in his youth he became 
a teacher in Tiverton. In his seventeenth 
year Mr. Durfee shipped on the whaler "Mer- 
maid," from New Bedford. After two years 
of such life he was discharged in St. Helena 
and entered the merchant marine service 
for a short period. Then he became a car- 
penter. In April, 1900, he bought the planing 
and finishing business that Samuel F. Stew- 
art had established in 1S8G. There was not 
work enough for two men steadily, but the 
eni rgy of .Mr. Durfee resulted in a lar.ge 




Nelson Borden Durlcc 

ircrcasp in business. In March, 1904. he 
formed a partnership with Wilbur C. Hartt, 
which continued until the fall of the same 
year, when William G. Smith entered the 
firm, the title of which is Nelson B. Durfee 
& Company. It has an extensive plant at 
870 South Main street, where Mr. Stewart 
started. An advanced step was taken in the 
spring of 1905 by the installation of a dry- 
ki'.n for the preparation of wood for the 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



253 



highest grade of interior finish and cabinet 
worlc. The firm had the contracts for the 
finish of the Fall River "Daily Globe" build- 
ing, the Ste. Anne's Church and Hospital, pri- 
vate residences and structures in Providence, 
Taunton and other cities. The members are 
believers in the progress of Fall River, are 
hard and earnest workers, and have had the 
pleasure of seeing their efforts develop the 
largest business of the kind in this section 
of New England. Mr. Hartt excels as a 
moulding man, and that branch of the busi- 
ness has increased rapidly under his man- 
agement. Mr. Smith is noted for his honest 
methods and square dealing. Mr. Durfee be- 
came a professed Christian in his youth, and 
was received into the membership of the 
Baptist Temple. All branches of church 
work appeal to him. In 1900 and 1901 he 
was president of the United Societies of 
Christian Endeavor of Fall River end vicin- 
ity, at the same time being an active worker 
with the Young Men's Christian Association. 
In 1903, Mr. Durfee was elected superintend- 
ent of the Sunday school connected with the 
Foster Street Baptist Mission, and his inter- 
est contributed materially to the creation 
of the mission into the Trinity Baptist 
Church. As a member of Battery M, heavy 
artillery, he enrolled for active service in 
the iwar with Spain in 1S9S, and was sta 
tioned at Fort Warren, Boston Harbor. The 
occasion did not arise for participation in 
the hostilities and Mr. Durfee was honor 
ably discharged. His marriage to Jeanie M 
Williamson, of this city, took place March 
22, 1S93. Four children have been born- 
Myrtle May, who died March 2S, 1S9G; Inez 
Morrison, Beatrice Flasket and Joshua Cran- 
dall. The activity which has marked hi.s 
business and religious life has distinguished 
his connection with Narragansett Lodge of 
Masons, which ho joined in 190(1. 

ALFRED STANISLAS LETOURNEAU.— 
Fall River has, among the younger genera- 
tion of its business men, many energetic, en- 
terprising and public-spirited adopted sons. 
Among these stands the subject of this 
i,kctch, Alfred Stanislas Letourneau. He was 
born April 22, ISGl, in St. Sebastien, Can- 
ada; he attended the common schools of his 
native place, and subsequently took the clas- 
sical course in St. Hyacinthe College. He 
studied pharmacy in Montreal, where he 
passed the provincial board of examination 
in 1885. The following year he became a 
resident of Fall River, following his profes- 



sion as a druggist. In 188S he obtained a 
certificate from the Massachusetts Board 
of Pharmacy after a successful examination. 
He lias been identified with the French so- 
cieties and naturalization movements in Fall 
River, and always contributed generously 
towards matters of public welfare. Mr. Le- 
tourneau first acted as clerk in the drug 
store of Dr. A. A. Collet & Co., located at 
the corner of Soutn Main and Borden 
streets; subsequently he went into partner- 
ship with his father-in-law, William Corneau. 
and had charge of the drug store comer of 
Pleasant and Corneau streets. After a 
while he dissolved the partnership and 
started a store on his own account in March, 
1891, at 105 Pleasant street, in the Jennings 




Alfred StantstuH Letourneau 

building, where he has been successful in 
iKlablishing a profitable business. He is 
noted as a steady, reliable and progressive 
business man. Many seek his advice, and 
find in him a man of excellent judgment, 
liberal and well informed on current events, 
as well as in history and literature generally. 
He was elected president and vice-president 
respectively of two social clubs, Lamarllne 
and La Boucane; a director in the Lafayette 
Co-operative Bank and treasurer of the 
1 wenty-five Associates. In 1S92 Mr. Letour- 
neau was married to Annie L. Corneau. 
Four children were born of this marriage, 
one 'boy named Darche and three girls. 
Clarice, Mariette and Adriennc. In March 



254 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



he was appointed a trustee of the public 
library by Mayor John T. Coughlin. While 
he never held any other office and has de- 
voted his time to his business, yet he never 
failed to be interested and to talie part in 
all events of a public character. He belongs 
to the Massaichusetts Druggists' Association, 
and while he makes a specialty of pharmacy 
and belongs to the forefront of his profes- 
sion, he does not neglect other intellectual 
fields. He is a great reader and a worthy 
citizen, and is thoroughly loyal to his adopt- 
ed country. 

.lOHN rSHERWOOD.— The name of John 
Isherwood has been associated with the gro- 




John Isherwood 

eery and provision trade of the city for so 
many years that a history of Fall River 
would not lie accurate which made no men- 
tion of his connection iwith it. Very few of 
the early storekeepers are living, or still 
pursuing the vocation. Mr. Isherwood is old 
neither in looks nor in action, and in feelings 
he is a comparatively young man. Close ap- 
plication lo business has been almost with- 
out noticeable effect on his spirits or phy- 
sique. Mr. Isherwood l)ears the name of 
his father; the maiden name of his moCTier 
was Margaret Holden. The parents lived in 
Uanisljottom, Lancashire, England, whefl Xe 
was born. July 2S, ls:),S. Family necessities 
pressed so hard that at an early age, before 
he had much of an ()i)port unity to taste t)he 



sweets of knowledge as dispensed at school, 
Mr. Isherwood was put to work. In 1851, 
the Isherwoods became residents of this 
city. The son found employment in the 
Globe Print Works at fifty cents a day. He 
was ambitious, and in 1859 became an ap- 
prentice in the blacksmith shop of James 
M. Oslwrn, which stood on the site of the 
present postoffice. Wlien he mastered the 
trade he was engaged by Marvel & Dsvol, 
machinists. In 1865, the Fall River Work- 
ingmen's Co-operative Association was or- 
ganized by Mr. Isherwood and six others, 
for the conduct of a grocery and provision 
store. That changed the current of his life. 
He became an employee of the association, 
and remained as such for four years and a 
half. Meanwhile, two l)rothers had located 
in Jackson County, Minnesota, and the re- 
ports they sent east led Mr. Isherwood to 
think that he would like to live in the West. 
.Accordingly, he bought a farm and settled 
on it with his family. One winter's experi- 
ence, however, was enough for the emigrants, 
and at the end of eighteen months they were 
back in Fall River. After a year in the 
machine shop of the Weetamoe Mill, .Mr. 
Isherwood was engaged to work in Cue 
grocery of Thomas Fantom, whom he served 
four years. Four years of association with 
John Frost followed, and then he started in 
business at his present location at 2175 South 
Main street. Up to five years ago he con- 
fined himself to retail interests. Then he 
became a wholesaler in addition, operating 
both branches with marked success. The 
wedding of Mr. Isherwood and Sarah Ham- 
lelt, of this city, took place here June 18, 
18G2. Seven children were Ixirn — Joseph 
Henry, Charles Lincoln, Samuel James, de- 
ceased: Sarah Elizabeth, Thomas, deceased; 
Alice Ann, deceased: John William Isher- 
wood. Mr. Isherwood is a member of Mt. 
Hope Lodge of Masons, and he and his 
family discharge their religious duties at St. 
John's Episcopal Church. His political con- 
victions made him a supjwrter of the Re- 
publican party when he cast his first vote, 
and in that faith he has continued, though 
not caring to be an active partisan. 

REGINALD ASHTON FOTLDS.— Of the 
men in business in tills city whose fathers 
went to the front in the days of the Rebel- 
lion, none is more imbued with civic spirit 
and has greater faith in the present and the 
future of Fall River than Reginald Ashton 
Foulds. Mr. Foulds is the sou of John E. 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



255 



Foulds, a native of Taunton, many of whose 
characteristics he inherited, and Mary Ker- 
shaw, who was born in Rochdale, England. 
They were married in Newton Upper 
Falls by Rev. .1. Minot Bailey, Sep- 
tember 7, ISOli, and settled in this 
city in 1SG7. On September 14, 1SG9, 
their only child was born. The father 
was in several engagements in the Civil 
War, having served in Company C, Twenty- 
second Massachusetts Regiment, for two 
years, and re-enlisted in the Second Massa- 
chusetts Light Artillery. He was an Alder- 
man in 1885, 188G and 1889, and held the 
chairmanship of the Republican City Com- 
mittee. At the time of his, death. Novem- 
ber 2S. 1903, ,T. E. Foulds was in the employ 




Reginald Ashton Foulds 

of the State as an Inspector of Buildings. 
Reginald A. Foulds reached the eighth grade 
in the public schools, and then turned to 
to help his parents. He was ambitious to 
get an education and attended a ni.ght school 
conducted by Edward Gray, so as to qualify 
for the course at the evening sessions at the 
high school. An opportunity to obtain the 
preparation for a business life afforded by 
a commercial college in Providence was em- 
Draced, and in 1888 Mr. Foulds received a 
diploma. His instruction at that institution 
he supplemented by attendance at a short- 
hand school in this city. After a short time 
spent as a bookkeeper he embarked in busi- 
ness as dealer in pianos. There had been 



no degree of failure in his preceding career, 
and success marked the venture. The liking 
the father had for politics was transmitted 
to the son, and Mr. Foulds was elected to 
represent the First Ward as Alderman. His 
acts satisfied the constituency, and the fol- 
lowing year he was in the same seat. Sep- 
tember 11, 1901, Miss Cora Gertrude Collins 
became the wife of Mr. Foulds. There are 
three children of the marriage, two boys 
and a girl. Mildred Alice is the oldest, Edgar 
Reginald next, and the baby of the family is 
.lohn Herbert. Mr. Foulds has connections 
with the Repuiblican Club of Massachusetts, 
the Central Republican Club of Fall River, 
Mt. Hope Lodge of Odd Fellows, the Fall 
River Trade and Industry Association, and 
the Fall River Retail Merchants' Associa- 
tion. If there is one hobby which he may 
be said to have it is the promotion of the 
welfare of the city. That is the object of 
the Trade and Industry Association, and 
Mr. Foulds has worked unceasingly and 
given of his means in its furtherance. He 
does not share the pessimism with which 
certain citizens are afflicted regarding the 
possibilities for a bigger and better Fall 
River: discouragements today serve as a 
stimulus for activity and hope the day fol- 
lowing, with an eye single to the common 
good. That was the trait of the elder 
Foulds, and it is the happy possession of the 
subject of this sketch. 

FRANK ANTHONY THURSTON.— Repre- 
sentatives of three generations in one family 
holding the ofRce of Superintendent of 
Streets, almost in succession, is the unique 
record to which Frank Anthony Thurston, 
the incumbent of the position, is able to 
point. The first Thurston to be so honored 
by his fellow citizens was Edward Thurs- 
ton. That was before the incorporation of 
Fall River as a city. He was elected by the 
town in 1850, 1851 and 1852 as Surve.vor of 
Highways. When Danforth Horton was ap- 
pointed head of the Street Department, he 
looked about for a man to act as assistant 
who was familiar with masonry and con- 
struction work in general. He found such 
a man in Anthony Thurston, a son of Ed- 
ward, and engaged him In 1868. The selec- 
tion was a fortunate one for the superin- 
tendent, and it was quite natural that the 
City Council, in considering the succession 
to Mr. Horton, should promote the capable 
deputy. This was done in 1S78. Frank A. 
Thurston, his son, became his successor, 



256 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



thereby establishing the record for family 
representation. Frank Anthony Thurston 
is the first-'born of Anthony and Ann M. 
(Whipple) Thurston. The family then lived 
at Steep Brook, and the birth took place 
March 15, 18G4. A course in the local 
schools was followed by training in the 
English and classical school in Providence, 
which was finished in 1SS4. Although his 
father occupied the lucrative post of Super- 
intendent of Streets, Mr. Thurston was made 
to realize that he had to make his way in the 
world by his own efforts like other mem- 
bers of the family for generations. As 'he 
chose to follow in the footsteps of his pa- 
ternal relative, he was placed on the pay- 
roll of the Street Department as a laborer, 




Frank Anthony Thurston 

and set to work at screening sand. Three 
years of employment as a sort of utility 
man — ^painter, assistant clerk and brick- 
layer — preceded promotion to fill a vacancy 
as foreman. No favors were shown the 
young man by his parent, who seemed to 
require more from him than was demanded 
from other workmen. Especially in the mat- 
tor of discipline was there unbending rigitl- 
Ity toward the son. When sickness incapac- 
itated the superintendent, the management 
of the department devolved largely on F. A. 
Thurston. His severe and versatile training 
in the details showed Itself under the weight 
of the new responsibility. Affairs ran 
smoothly, and the footsteps of the parent 



were adhered to closely. Anthony Thurs- 
ton died September G, 1894, and he was laid 
to rest in Oak Grove Cemetery. Those were 
lather strenuous days in municipal govern- 
ment. Partisanship was intense. There was 
a division among the Aldermen as respected 
the authority and acts of the Mayor. The 
leaders of the dominant faction endeavored 
to imbue city officials with the prejudices 
that animated them, and it was sought to 
make the condition of election to offices filled 
by the City Council a declaration of sym- 
pathy with the opponents of the executive. 
Although Mr. Thurston refused peremptorily 
to give any pledge other than a promise to fill 
the position of superintendent to the best 
of his ability and to try to satisfy the citi- 
zens, his frankness appealed to the City 
Council, and he was elected November 5, 
1S!)4. The confidence reposed in the father 
was transmitted to the son, and every year 
since; his first election down to the present 
(IHIK)) the superintendent has had the sup- 
port of the government as an aspirant for 
reelection. Politics does not interest Mr. 
Thurston save doing his duty as a voter. He 
has time for nothing but his home, his work 
and an occasional meeting of the fraterni- 
lies with which he is connected — King Philip 
Lodge of Masons. Fall River I^dgc of Odd 
I'cllows and Pocassct I>odge of Pythians. 
Ill' has been married twice. His first wife, 
Daisy E. Bowles, with whom he entered into 
marriage September 17, 1889, died April 
:ji), 1S9S. The present Mrs. Thurston was 
M. Estella Adams, the union beginning .Iun(> 
9. 1904. 

.lAMEJS H. HOLUEN.— Among the native- 
horn business men and manufacturers of 
Fall River, James H. Holden deserves a place 
simply because he has earned it. Men who 
work hard and build up a successful enter- 
l)rise add to the city's progress and dcveloi>- 
nient. Mr. Holden was born in this city 
May 2, 18G9, and received his education In 
the public schools. His father, James Hol- 
den, was born in Blackburn, England, and 
came to the United States in 1852, landing 
in New York City. Soon after setting foot 
on American soil he secured employment at 
the Brooklyn Navy Yard and learned how 
to make rope, where he worked for three 
years, coming to Fall River In 185G. Mr. 
Holden did not remain idle very long, for he 
learned to spin cotton In the land of his 
birth, and it stood him In good stead when 
he arrived In this city. Help was not as 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



257 



plentiful then as it is now, and young Hol- 
den had no trouble in securing employment 
in the spinning room of the Metacomet Mill 
where he worked for two years. Being am- 
bitious, and desiring to go into business on 
his own account, he rented a small building 





i^ 


•^m 


Ifti^^R 


S 


^^r 


^ 


ipr 


^^^^^^^ 


»^ 


p^^ 


^H 


fc;.., ::^.^-. 


.jii;- _^;--3aBHi 



James H. Holden 

on Hope street, in 1S59, and began to make 
cotton rope and mill banding. He was the 
first to start that industry in Fall River, and 
soon built up a successful business. For 
nine years he remained in the Hope street 



building, and then moved to 559 Ridge street, 
which at that time was known as 8 Dyson 
street. The business grew and prospered 
and new buildings were added from time to 
time to make room for new machinery and 
other improvements. Mr. Holden was united 
In marriage to Miss Sarah Hendry, of Fall 
Itiver, in 18G7. One son was born to them, 
.lames H. Holden, the name at the head of 
this biographical sketch, and the present 
head of the business. Mr. Holden, Sr., died 
in 1874, and his widow continued the manu- 
I'acturing business until her son reached the 
age when he could assume the responsibilily 
of managing the establishment, which oc- 
curred in 1891. Mrs. Holden retired and 
her son became the acti\e head. Since James 
H. Holden took charge of the business it 
has grown to be one of the best known es- 
tablishments of the kind in the New Eng- 
land States. He manufactures cotton rope 
and all kinds of mill banding, and his trade 
extends all over the country. .lames H. Hol- 
den was married to Miss Rose Rourke, of 
Fall River. Three children have blessed 
their union — 'Grace, Ruth and George Hol- 
den. The faiuily reside at 559 Ridge street. 
.Mr. Holden is an independent voter and 
voles for the men whom he thinks will make 
the best officials and give the best adminis- 
tration to the people. He belongs to the 
Fall River Bowling Green Club, and for 
twenty years has been an honored member 
of the Y. M. I. A. C. T. A. B. Society 
of this city. The family attend St. Patrick's 
Church, on South Main street. 




INDEX OF TEXT 



PAGE 

A. 

Al)olilion ol (;ia:le Crossings 4M 

Academy of Music openel :i:; 

Adoplian of new Oily Charier ;!9 

Advent Christian Chnrch 121 

Algonquin Printing Company 89 

American Linen Mill 72 

American Print Works 72 

American Print Worlcs established.... 22 
An Army of 32, .500 Men employed in 

the Cotton Mills 75 

Ancient Order of Hibernians 137 

Ancona Mills 85 

Anawan and Massasoil Mills 72 

Arkwright Mills 87 

Assassination of Lincoln Cause of 

Universal Grief 32 

B. 

Banks and Banking 95 

Barnaliy Mills 81 

Barnard Manufacturing Comi)any SO 

Bay State Steamboat Company formed 

in 1847 23 

Beginniings and Development of two 

Strong Departments G7 

Benjamin Church, in 1714. transferred 

Water Rights to the Borden family. 10 
B. M. C. Durfee Safe Deposit & Trust 

Company 97 

Bogle Street Christian Church 119 

Border City Herald 107 

Boundary Question finally Settled 29 

Bourne Mills 83 

Boys' Club of Fall River 134 

Bradford Durfee Textile School 59 

Braylon M. R. Church 114 

C. 

Calico Print in.g he.gun in 182r. 23 

Capital Invested in the Cotton Industry 

nearly $20.000.000 75 

Catholic Diocese of Fall River 123 

Central Congre.gational Church 112 

Chace Mills 83 

Charles Pittman First Postmaster 34 

Chace's Thread Mil! 72 

Cholera Epidemic in 1854 28 

Church of the Blessed Sacrament 131 

Church of .lesus Christ of Latter Day 

Saints 121 

Church of the Ascension (P. R.) 117 



I'ACE 

Church of the New .Icrusiiuui 122 

Citizens' Savings Bank 97 

City has Forty Cotton Manufacturing 

Corporations 74 

City Hospital lOG 

City's Officials 1 18.-.1-190C) 14G 

Cleft Rock as a Boundary Monument.. 8 
Clubs, l.,odges. Social and other Organi- 
zations 132 

Colonel .loseph Durfee's Prominent Part 

in the Action of May 25, 1778 10 

Colonel Thomas Gilbert's Prominence 

in the Revolutionary Struggle 17 

Colonel Thomas Gilbert's Property 

ConP.scaiod by the Colonists IS 

Commission appointed in 1740 to 
Establish Eastern Boundary, but not 

definitely located until 1844 13 

Completion of Waterworks 33 

Conaniout Mills S4 

Convent and Academy of the Holy 

Union of the Sacred Hearts 131 

Cornell Mills S4 

Crescent Mills 85 

Custom House Eslablishe.l in 1782 12 

D. 

Davis Mills 88 

Davol Mills 82 

Deaconess' Home 13G 

Disast rous Fire in 1 S43 22 

Division of Freemen's Purchase C 

"Drafts" of Soldiers 31 

Durfee Mills 87 

E. 

Eagle Mill 72 

Early Farmers interested in Ship- 
building 12 

Early History of Fall River 1 

Early History of the Catholic Church.. 129 
Early Mills insignificant compared to 

l)resent structures 23 

Early Schools in Fall River IS 

Early Town Records of Freetown 19 

Ebenezer T. Learned. M. D 100 

Educational Facilities 50 

I'Jffort made in 1804 to Change the name 
of Fall River to that of Troy. 

proved Successful 22 

Election Statistics 144 

lOniergonoy llospilnl . luG 



260 



HISTORY OF FALLRIVER 



Enterprise Brewing Company 91 

Krectlon of Custom House begun in 1875 

and completed in ISSO 30 

ICsi)irit() Sanlo (Portuguese) Church... 131 

Kstes Mills 200 

JDvening News established 107 

Excellent Waterworks System 48 

F. 

Fall River Bar Association 103 

Fall Itivcr Bleachery S'J 

Fn\l River Co-Operativo Bank Ino 

Fall River Daily Globe 107 

Fall River Daily Herald 109 

Fall River Electric Light Company.... 91 

Fall River Five-Cent Savings Bank 9S 

Fall River Gas Works 93 

Fall River Hospital lOIJ 

l''all River Incorporated Feb. 2C, 1S03.. 21 
Fall River Incorporated as a City in 

1854 2S 

Fall River Line 92 

Fall River Manufactory 72 

Fall River Medicai Society lOn 

Fall River Monitor 109 

Fall River National Bank 9S 

Pall River of To-day — Its Attractive 

Situation and Advantages 40 

Fall River Savings Bank 90 

Fire and Police 07 

Fire Department Instituted in 182G .. 23 
Firing on Fort Sumter was responded to 

by Speedy Enlistments of Defenders 

of the Union 31 

First Baptist Church 113 

First Catholic Edifice (St. John the 

Baptist) erected in 1837 123 

First Catholic Services held in 1829 .. 123 

First Christian Church 119 

First Congregational Church 112 

First Cotton Mill erected in 1S11 22 

First M. E. Church 1T4 

First National Bank 90 

First Primitive Methodist Church .... 110 

First Saw Mill erected in 1091 in 

First Schoolhouses erected in 1722 and 

1727 IS 

First Street Railway 93 

Flint Mills 81 

Foresters of America 137 

Foster Hooper, M. D 104 

Fowler Congregational Church 113 

Free Delivery System Inaugurated .Tuly 

1. 1S03 34 

Freemen's Purch.nse (Freetown) 

French Congregational Church 113 

Freetown Incorporated in 1083 9 



PAGE 

Friends' .Meetings held in 1818 120 

G. 

(ieneral Court gives i;20 for a Church 

Building 19 

(ieorge l>awton. settled in 1087 8 

Clobe Yarn .Mills 8G 

(Mobe Presbyterian Church 120 

(Jrand Army of the Republic 138 

(iranite Mills 79 

Craves of Revolutionary Soldiers 10 

(irealest Centre of Cotton Manufacturing 72 
(irowlh and Efficiency of the .Vlo.lein 

School System 50 

K. 

Happy Girls' Club 134 

Hargraves Mills 88 

Henry Howland, settler in 1083 8 

Home for Aged People 134 

Hugh Woodberee, settler in 1G80 8 

I. 

In 1833 the name Troy was supplanted 

by the readoption of Fall River . . 22 

Independent Order of Odd Fellows .... 137 

Independent Polish Catholic Church .. 131 

Indian Reservation Designated in 1704.. 14 

Indian Schoolhouse erected in 1772 .... 14 

Influx of French-Canadians 32 

Industrial Exchange 134 

Incorporation of Tiverton in 1092 9 

Importance of Whaling Industry be- 
tween 1840 and 1850 20 

Immaculate Conception Church 131 

Its Water Power 40 

J. 

.lames M. Aldrich, M. D 100 

Jerome Dwelly, M. D., Dean of the 

Medical Profession 104 

John Read, settler in 1080 8 

K. 

Kerr Thread Company 91 

Kllhurn. Lincoln & Company 89 

King I'liilip 2 

King Philip Brewing Company 91 

King Philip Mills 79 

Knighis of Pythias 137 

L. 

Labor "Strikes" among the Mill Hands. 139 

Lafayette Co-Operative Bank 100 

Laurel Lake Mills 85 

Law. Medicine and the Press 102 

Liberal Support given the TTnion Cause. . 32 

l.'Independamt (daily) 109 

Luther Maniifacturmg Comi)any 84 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



M. 

.\I, C. I). liordcn. a Piominoni Factor in 

the cily's Industrial Growth 75 

Madonna de Rosario (Italian) Chtircn 131 
Many Divines noted for Long Service 111 

Marlicd Mercantile Activity 33 

Masonic Societies 137 

M assasoi t 1 

Massasoit Hank !)S 

Massasoit Manufaetiiring Company .... 80 
Massasoii-Pocasset National Bank .... 9S 
Maltliew Uoonier, fir.st settler in I'lTG .. S 
Mayor John T. Coii.srhlin's Adniinisitra- 

tion 42 

Mechanics' Mills SI 

Merchants' Manufacturing Company . . 83 

Melacomot Mills 72 

Meiaconiet National Bank 9G 

Mill Industry shows Marked Activity in 

the years 1821 to 1825 22 

"Monitor" newspaper begins publication 

in 1S2G 22 

Mule Spinners' Association 140 

Municipal Indebtedness 14C 

Municipal Statistics 143 

N. 

N. B. Aldrich. M. D lOG 

Narragansett Mills 8G 

National Union Bank 9G 

Naval Brigade 13S 

New Bedford Railroad Constructed .... 33 

North Burial Ground 54 

North Christian Church 119 

North M. E. Church 1 1 G 

North Park 53 

Noted Financiers 95 

Noted Relics Destroyed by the Great 

Fire in 1843 25 

Notre Dame de Lourdes Church 129 

Number of Spindles, 3,300.000, and 83.000 
Looms busy in Manufacturing Tex- 
tile Goods 75 

O. 

Oak Grove Cemetery instituted 2S 

Oak Grove Cemetery 54 

Oak Tree Cemetery 54 

Old Colony Brewing Company 91 

01de.s.t Living Lawyer lf>4 

Original Deed of Pocasset Purchase . . 7 

Orphanage of St. Joseph 131 

Osl)orn Mill.=! S'"' 

P 

Parker Mills S7 

Park Sy.-tem of Fall River 53 



PACE 

People's Co-Operaiive liank lou 

Petition of Thomas Uonlen and others 
for a Separation from Freetown, 
dated January 1:;, lilii:;, presented 

■to the General Court 20 

Pocasset Manufaciuring Company 77 

Pocasset National Bank ' ys 

Pocasset Purchase 5 

Population (from 181()-1!)(i(j) m; 

Prpulation of Fall River in 1S()3 was 

about 1,000 inhabitants 22 

Poor Farm Established 23 

Post Office Established in 1811 23 

Power Weaving Introduced in 1817 22 

Principal Hostelry in 1830 21 

Profit-Sharing Instituted 140 

Prominent Lawyers 102 

Prominent Men in the Mill Indu.stry .. 2 1 
Prominent Part taken by the Settlers in 

the Revolutionary Struggles 15 

Prominent Tories noted to Appear for 

Trial, May 31, 1777 IS 

Public Improvements Ordered to Alle- 
viate the Stringency in 1857 29 

Public Library, description G2 

Public Library establislied 29 

Q 

Quakers among the Early Settlers .... 10 
Quakers Predominated in the Early 

Days Ill 

Quarry Street M. E. Church 114 

Quequechan Club 132 

Quequechan Mill 77 

Quequechan River a." a Water Power 

early discovered 9 

R 

Railroad Facilities IG 

P^lph Earle, settler in \(''mi 8 

Religious Denominations Ill 

Response to First Call for Volunteers 

April 19, 1775 15 

Robert Durfee. settler in 1C80 S 

Robert T. Davis. M. D 104 

Robeson's Print Works 72 

Rolling Rock on County street 54 

Ruggles Park 53 

S. 

Sacred Heart Academy lo 

Sagamore Mills 85 

Sail Works established July 7. 1777 10 

Salvation Army Citadel 13*1 

Samuel Gardner, settler in 1GS7. wa.s 

an r^arly town clerk .... 8 



262 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



Saul'ord Spinning Company ST 

Si'al)iiiy W. Bowen, M. lul 

Soaconnel Mills SI 

Si'cond Baptist Cliiircli 114 

Second National Bank 9S 

Second Briruilivi' .Mcilio.list Church... 1 U; 

Sower System 5.^ 

Shove Mills 82 

Sisters of St. Joseph 131 

Slade's Perry Established in li;23 13 

Slade's Ferry Bridge Completed and 

Opened to the l^uhlic 33 

Sonth Park 53 

Stafford Mills TS 

Stage l^ines Inaugiirale.l 23 

State Militia 137 

Steam Railroad extended to Newport . . 29 
SI<'anil)oals to Local Points, first run .. 23 
Stephen Borden, Moderator of Meeting 
endorsing Declaration of Independ- 
ence Hi 

Stevens Manufacturing Company SO 

SS. Peter and Paul's Church 131 

iste. Anne's Hospital 129 

Ste. Anne's R. C. Church 1 29 

Stocks and Pillory erected m IfiSn for 

Evil-doers 12 

St. James' P. E. Church IIS 

St. John's (P. E.) Church 117 

St. Luke's P. E. Church US 

St. Mark's P. E. Church 117 

SI. Mary's Catholic Church corner-stone 

laid in 1S52 123 

St. Mathieu's Church 131 

St. Paul's M. E. Church Ill 

St. Rooh's R. C. Church 131 

St. Stanislaus Church 1".I 

St. Stephen's P. E. Church H9 

St. Vincent's Orphanage 124 

SuinmerHelrt M. E. Church 110 

Swansea Dye Works 91 

Sykes Primitive Methodist Church .... IHl 



PACE 

Tax V'alualions l-i^i 

Tecumseh Mills S2 

Textile School 4ii 

Textile Strike of 1904 39 

The Avery Case 24 

The Wampanoags 3 

The B. M. C. Durfee High School .. 59 

The Borden Murder Trial 39 

The Catholic Advocate llii 

The City's Executives 37 

The City's Indusi ries 72 

The Friends (Quakers) erected a 

Meeting-house in 1 725 19 

1 he Great Fire of 1843 2.5 

"The Goose-Nesting Rock" 54 

The Noted Clough Murder Case 25 

Third Baptist Church Ill 

Thomas Wilbur, M. D lotJ 

Tiverton under Provisional Government 9 

Toll Roads Abolished 30 

Treaty with the Indians 4 

Trinity BaptLst Church 114 

Troy Co-Operative Bank 98 

Tioy Cotton and Woolen .Manufactory.. 72 

U. 

Union Hospital lOfi 

Union Mills 79 

Union Savings Bank 97 

Unitarian Church 121 

I'nitod Presbyterian Church 120 

W. 

Wampanoag Mills 78 

Wamsutia 5 

Water Communication 4f> 

Weelamoe -Mills 85 

William Chase, settler in 1CS4 8 

William Way, first schoolmaster IS 

Women's Union 134 

Working Girls' Club 131 



'I'. 
Tahlel ( ■oMiniemoral ing the Battle of 

May 25, 1778, erected in 1899 17 



Young Men's Christian Association .. 132 
Young Men's Irish-American Caiholic T. 

A. B. Society Kill 



INDEX OF GENERAL ILLUSTRATIONS 



.\meric;in Printing Company's Plant . . 73 
Boys' Club House, the gift of M. C. D. 

Borden, Esq 110 

Conlral Congregational Church 112 



PACE 

Children's Home ISH 

Church of the Ascension 114 

City Hall 41 

Coiiuly Court House 91 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



David AiUlioiiy !•:! 

Evening News Building IIJU 

Everett B. Uiirfee, Superintendent of 

Schools oG 

Fall River Hospital 37 

Pire of July, 1S43 25 

Hudner Building 105 

Interior of St. Mark's I'. K. Church 118 

Jesse Eddy 93 

King Philip 2 

Main iStaircase and Entrance to City 

Hall 47 

Main sitreet in 1S38 24 

Members of the Board of Aldermen — 

First, Second and Third Wards .... 43 
Members of the Board of Aldermen — 

Fourth. Fifth and Sixth Wards 44 

Members of the Board of Aldermen — 

Seventh, Eighth and Ninth Wards.. 45 
New Aldermanic Chamber, City Hall.. 47 
North Park, view across the Wading 

Pool 53 

Old Aldermanic Ohamber, City Hall.. 49 
Old Church House, corner of June and 

French streets 23 

Old City Hall 27 

Old Colony Brewery 238 

Old Episcopal Church Ill 

Old Freelove House 21 

Old Gun House on Rock street, near 

Bedford street 22 

Old Matthew Boomer House 21 



Old Residence of Mrs. Mary U. Young, 
which stood on the present site of 

Public Library 04 

Plymouth Avenue School 5'J 

Post Office 35 

Public Library Building , 02 

Quill Pen Ledger of Edmund Estes. 
Treasurer of Union Factory, found- 
ed February 10, 1813 202 

Ruggles Park, from the corner of Pine 

and Seabury streets 52 

South Park, view of the Wading Pool.. 55 

South Park, view of the Wading Pool.. 57 

South Park, view showing shrubbery.. 51 

Sle. Anne's Church 127 

St. Mary's Church 125 

St. Vincent Home 120 

The Armory 122 

The B. M. C. Durfee High School 00 

The Brownell House 20 

The Davenixjrt School 58 

The N. B. Borden School 57 

The Old Buttonwood Tree 30 

The Old David Anthony House 71 

The old excursion sleamboats Bradfiud 

Durfee and Canonicus 20 

The Old Slade House, formerly al south- 
west corner of North Main and Elm 

streets 7 

The Thomas Durfee House 20 

William F. Kennedy, editor of Fall 

River Daily Globe 108 

Young Men's Christian Association 

Building 133 



BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX 



(♦Indicates that portrait accompanies 

PAGE 

Aldrich, M. D., J. .\! 184 

*Aimy, Franklin L 191 

•Archambault, M. D., J. Arthur 251 

*Barre, M. D., Joseph A 210 

Borden, Cook 185 

*Borden, Charles Frederick 195 

•Borden. Jefferson 203 

•Borden, M. C. D 101 

•Borden, Hon. Nathaniel Briggs 175 

•Borden, Col. Richard 103 

•Boweu. Joseph Abraham 193 

•Brady, James Charles 229 

•Brayton, Arthur Borden 244 

•Brayton, David Anthony 1C7 



biography.) 

PAGE 

•Brayton, Hon. John Summerfield .. 104 

Bumnton, Hon. Edward Puringtou . . 184 

*Bufnniton, Hon. James 1S5 

•Butler. M. D., William Hodnett 234 

•Chace, Hon. Frank M 227 

•Chace, Hon. Oliver 213 

•Cook, Richard Hartley 239 

•Cornell, Daniel Howland 215 

Coughlin, John T 173 

•Crosson. James Daniel 239 

•Darling. Leander Rich 234 

•Davis. Hon. Robert Thompson UiS 

•Davol. Stephen 204 

•Davol, William C 229 



2S4 



HISTORY OF FALL RIVER 



PAGE 

*DubiU]ue, Hugo Atlelard 224 

Dunn, William .1 219 

*Durfee, Captain William 240 

Durfee, Everett Biownell 248 

*Durfee, M. U., Nathan 207 

*Diirfee, Nelson Borden 252 

*Dwelly, Jr., Jerome 181 

*Estes, John H 199 

*Foiilds, Reginald Ashton 254 

•Gray, Franklin 211 

*Grcene, Hon. William Stednian 204 

*Grinie, Hon. Geor.tce 20V 

Haffenreffer. Jr., Rudolf F 238 

Hatheway, Nicholis 195 

*Holden, James H 25G 

♦Holmes, Hon. Charles Jarvis 191 

*Hughes, Rev. Christopher 230 

*Isherwood, John 254 

Jackson, Hon. James Frederick 200 

*Jenniings, William H 197 

♦Kelly, M. D., Michael 232 

♦Landry, M. D.. Joseph Napoleon 251 

*I.ang;ford. James 243 

Leonard. M. U., K. T 183 

♦Lt lourneau, Alfred Stanislas 253 

'Lincoln. Jonathan Thayer 177 



PAGE 

"Lincoln, Leontine 179 

-Maloney, V. S.. Thomas Edmund .... 248 

♦McNally, Michael 24U 

♦McWhirr, Robert Armstrong 215 

♦Milne, John C 189 

♦Morrison, David 217 

Muniroe, John D 23() 

♦Osborn, Hon. Weaver 183 

♦Quinn. .John F'rancis 242 

♦Reagan, Michael 240 

Reed. Hon. Milton 220 

♦Remington, Robert Knight 187 

-Sinclair, Hon. James 249 

♦Small, Jr., Reuben 221 

Slang. Rt. Rev. Bishop William 232 

♦iSullivan, Daniel D 209 

♦Swift, James Marcus 227 

'Thurston, Frank Anthony 255 

♦Torphy, John E 247 

♦Trainer, John B 225 

♦Watson, Samue'. 222 

Westall, M. D.. John 220 

♦Wetherell. Orin Bradf.ird 21 S 

♦Whitehead, Edmund 235 

*WiIson. James H 21G 




H 88 78 >1< 









^,0 















-J- ^v 









* -. o ,-4- . - ^^ 

.0 ' 



'-\o> \''^?fr^^''/ -o'-'^r^-'^o^ %./^'^?!^'''/ \, 

.-^\V?44\° -^^K-^ "hM^' ^^cf' -^^A y'r.c'i 



^ ^••' 

''■^'■S" 



■/- 



.. .. ... ... ., ^^^ . ... , .^^^^ .... .. 



"•^^o^ 



.^^^ 



■\ 



■J- .b 



o.^' 



0^ 



.V 












% 












o 






o V 



,^^^^ 






^^ 






.0^ 






.■y 






•*-.- 






.^' 






^-H- 



'^•■.o- 









?^ Z-^, •vv.:^/^^^ /^. ^$^^ /-^ 









. * — o V 












•.S^ 
























♦^ ... \' ■•' <^<' ... %' --'^ ^^' ... " 



